In a concerning update, Sri Lanka has reported 50 fatalities due to dengue fever in 2023, with the total number of cases soaring past 84,000.
The latest statistics, released by the Epidemiology Unit as of December 22, reveal a significant spike in cases, with the Colombo district alone accounting for 17,803 cases.
The Western Province has been particularly hard-hit, recording the highest province-wise tally of 38,673 cases. Disturbingly, the month of December has added 7,550 new cases to the growing dengue count.
Expressing deep concern over the situation, Dr. Nalin Ariyaratne, Director of the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU), highlighted that the country is witnessing an alarming daily average of 250 reported cases. Dr. Ariyaratne emphasized that the current rainy conditions are likely contributing to the surge in dengue cases.
In response to the escalating crisis, Dr. Ariyaratne urged the public to take proactive measures in combating the spread of dengue. He emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness in surroundings and eliminating potential mosquito breeding sites. The National Dengue Control Unit is working tirelessly to address the outbreak, and citizens are urged to cooperate by adopting preventative measures to curb the further spread of this mosquito-borne disease.
