Lanka’s dengue cases surpass 72,000 as death toll rises to 49

Sri Lanka has recorded a total of 72,430 dengue cases so far this year, with the death toll rising to 49, according to the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU).

The NDCU said 1,195 new dengue cases were reported across the country during the 24-hour period ending at 6.00 a.m. Thursday (16).

The highest number of cases continues to be reported from the Gampaha and Colombo districts, which remain among the worst-affected areas.

According to the NDCU, 17,051 dengue cases have been recorded during the first 15 days of this month alone, highlighting a continuing surge in infections.

The health authorities have identified 175 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions across the country as high-risk dengue zones.

The NDCU has urged the public to take preventive measures to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds as health authorities continue surveillance and control programmes amid the rising number of cases.