Dengue authorities warn of renewed epidemic risk as rains continue

The National Dengue Control Unit warned of a possible increase in dengue infections as wet weather continues and has urged the public to remove mosquito breeding sites without delay.

Acting Director Dr Kapila Kannangara said there was a risk of another dengue epidemic if mosquito-control measures were not properly maintained.

He said Sri Lanka had historically recorded increases in dengue cases during rainy periods and warned that the current weather conditions could create favourable breeding environments for mosquitoes.

Larval surveys are now being carried out in all districts, he said, adding that public cooperation was essential to maintain the progress already made in controlling dengue.

Kannangara said community participation had helped authorities bring the high-risk and epidemic conditions experienced during the south-west monsoon under control.

To prevent a recurrence, households and institutions should immediately inspect their premises and remove places where water can collect, he said.

Particular attention should be paid to containers and other locations around homes and workplaces where stagnant water can accumulate.

“There is a risk of dengue increasing with the rainy season. We have seen throughout history that dengue tends to increase during rainy periods,” Kannangara said.

He added that without continued public participation in eliminating breeding sites, Sri Lanka could again face an epidemic situation in the coming period.