Consultant Specialist at the National Dengue Unit, Dr. Prashila Samaraweera, has cautioned that although the number of dengue patients reported has dropped to a minimum level, the threat of the disease has not disappeared.
Speaking at a media briefing organized by the Health Promotion Bureau, Dr. Samaraweera urged the public to remain vigilant and eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes in their surroundings.
She noted that in some districts, a rise in mosquito populations is observed first, followed by an increase in patient numbers.
According to the National Dengue Control Unit, 95,868 dengue cases have been reported across Sri Lanka so far in 2026.
The highest monthly figures were recorded in June (21,533 cases) and July (29,962 cases), while August saw 10,156 cases. As of September 2, only 376 cases have been reported this month.
District‑wise data shows Gampaha leading with 20,415 cases (21.29%), followed by Colombo with 18,981 cases (19.80%), Kandy with 6,174 cases (6.44%), and Kalutara with 6,116 cases (6.38%).
By province, the Western Province accounts for more than half of the total, with 50,586 cases (52.80%), while the Southern Province reported 13,958 cases (14.56%), and the Central Province 8,812 cases (9.19%).
So far this year, 72 dengue‑related deaths have been recorded, with a case fatality rate of 0.075%. Officials have identified 50 high‑risk MOH areas as of Week 34, with an average of 641 new cases daily.
Health authorities continue to stress that prevention remains critical, urging households and workplaces to regularly check and clear potential mosquito breeding sites. (Newswire)
