The National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) has sounded the alarm over a sharp surge in dengue cases across Sri Lanka, with over 19,000 infections and seven deaths reported so far this year.
While health authorities have successfully contained the outbreak in the Ratnapura District to some extent, several Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions in the area continue to record high numbers of cases.
The persistent risk in these regions has prompted health officials to step up intervention efforts.
In response, the NDCU has announced a week-long nationwide dengue eradication program, to be held from May 19 to May 24.
The campaign will focus on high-risk MOH divisions and will aim to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, increase public awareness, and encourage active community participation.
“Our main focus is to prevent further spread through early intervention. The key to controlling dengue is community engagement. Without the public’s cooperation, especially in eliminating breeding sites, our efforts will have limited impact,” Director of the NDCU Dr. Sudath Samaraweera said.
The campaign will include house-to-house inspections, school awareness programs, and the mobilization of local government and public health officers.
Authorities urge the public to clean up surroundings, remove stagnant water, and promptly report suspected symptoms to medical professionals.
Health experts warn that with the arrival of monsoon rains in several provinces, the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, particularly dengue, will remain elevated in the coming weeks.
Leave a comment