News Today: Dengue outbreak surges with 21,439 cases and 10 deaths across 15 districts

Sri Lanka is facing a serious public health crisis as dengue cases skyrocket, with 21,439 reported cases and 10 related deaths across 15 districts, according to the Health Promotion Bureau.

Consultant Community Physician Dr. Preshila Samaraweera disclosed that the Western Province alone accounts for 45% of the cases, with Colombo and Gampaha among the most affected districts. Other hotspots include Ratnapura, Batticaloa, Kandy, Galle, Matara, Trincomalee, Kalmunai, and Kurunegala.

The alarming figures were revealed during a nationwide dengue relief programme conducted by health authorities. Over 40,000 premises were inspected in just two days, and a staggering 10,613 potential mosquito breeding sites were identified.

Crackdown on Negligence:

• 1,407 red warnings issued.

• 347 legal actions taken against individuals or institutions violating dengue prevention regulations.

Dr. Samaraweera emphasized that schools, religious institutions, construction sites, and other public locations had more breeding sites than residential areas, signaling a dire need for collective community effort.

She urged the public to regularly clean their surroundings, noting that neglect in maintenance significantly contributes to mosquito infestations.