Sri Lanka has recorded 64 dengue deaths so far this year and 89,033 reported cases, according to the latest figures from the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU).
The Western Province accounts for more than half the national caseload — 47,136 infections, or 52.94% of the total.
Gampaha remains the worst-hit district
Gampaha has reported 18,922 cases, 21.25% of the countrywide total and the highest of any district. Colombo District follows with 17,679 cases (19.86%), and Kandy with 6,298 (7.07%). Within the Colombo Municipal Council area alone, 3,569 infections have been recorded.
July was the heaviest month of the year, with 29,973 cases. A further 3,686 infections were reported in the first seven days of August.
Health authorities have identified 119 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) areas as high-risk dengue zones. NewsFirst reported that mosquito control operations are continuing across those areas.
Two weeks of steady escalation
The figures mark a continued climb from the NDCU’s July 25 report of 61 deaths and 80,905 cases — an increase of three deaths and more than 8,000 infections in a fortnight.
The district rankings have also shifted since that report. Matara, previously third by caseload, has been overtaken by Kandy in the latest breakdown, while Gampaha and Colombo remain the two most affected districts.
Officials continue to urge the public to clear mosquito-breeding sites at homes, schools and workplaces, warning that discarded containers, blocked gutters and standing water sustain the Aedes mosquito population. Anyone with a persistent high fever is advised to seek medical treatment early, as delayed care remains a leading factor in dengue deaths.
Sources: Ada Derana; NewsFirst.
