Sri Lanka’s dengue outbreak continued to intensify, with reported infections passing 76,000 for the year and the death toll climbing to 58, as hospitals in the worst-hit Western Province came under mounting strain.
The National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) said 76,044 cases had been recorded so far in 2026, with 162 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) areas now designated high-risk zones, the Daily Mirror reported. The Western Province alone accounts for 52.61% of all infections — 40,009 cases — reflecting the dense, urban conditions in which the Aedes mosquito thrives.
The death toll has risen steadily in recent days, from 53 reported on July 19 to 56, according to Ada Derana, and then to 58, NewsFirst reported. Even so, the case-fatality rate remains low at about 0.07%, underscoring that most infections are being managed successfully when patients seek care early.
Pressure on paediatric services is becoming visible. The Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children (LRH) in Colombo issued an urgent notice as admissions surged, with Director Dr. Pradeep Ratnasekara urging parents and guardians to bring essential medical documents when seeking treatment or attending clinics. The hospital said the request would help staff cope with the sharp increase in children needing care. Families were directed to the Office of the Hospital Director (011 2693711, ext. 307) for further information.
Health authorities have repeatedly appealed to households, schools and workplaces to inspect premises weekly and clear stagnant water where mosquitoes breed. Dengue typically surges during and after monsoon rains, when discarded containers, blocked drains and rooftop pools collect standing water.
