Around 88% of the dengue cases reported in Sri Lanka so far this year have been caused by the Dengue Virus Type 2 (DENV-2) strain, the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) has said.
NDCU Director Dr. Kapila Kannangara said the dominance of DENV-2 has raised the risk of infection because the population has built up little immunity to this particular strain, according to NewsFirst. Lower immunity means more people are susceptible and can fall ill if bitten by an infected mosquito.
The unit said 162 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions across the country remain at high risk for dengue transmission.
Dengue is spread by the Aedes mosquito and circulates in four related serotypes, DENV-1 through DENV-4. Immunity acquired from infection with one serotype does not provide lasting protection against the others, which is why a shift in the dominant strain can drive fresh waves of infection.
Health authorities have urged the public to remove potential mosquito breeding sites — including discarded containers, blocked drains and any collection of stagnant water — and to seek medical care promptly if dengue symptoms appear.
