Sri Lanka's National Dengue Control Unit has directed educational institutions to conduct mosquito control programmes before schools reopen, as the country grapples with nearly 95,000 dengue cases this year.

The National Dengue Control Unit has instructed education authorities across Sri Lanka to implement dengue-control programmes at all schools prior to the start of the new academic term. According to Dr. Kapila Kannangara, director of the unit, the measure aims to reduce transmission risks as students return to classrooms.

The timing of the initiative reflects growing concerns about dengue transmission patterns. Dr. Kannangara highlighted that intermittent rainfall currently affecting the southwestern regions creates favourable conditions for mosquito breeding, potentially exacerbating the situation as weather patterns continue. The unit has also appealed to the general public to maintain vigilance and undertake preventative measures such as cleaning their immediate surroundings to eliminate potential breeding sites.

The scale of the current dengue outbreak underscores the urgency of such preventative action. As of the latest update, the country has recorded 95,035 dengue cases throughout the year, with 72 deaths attributed to the disease. The situation remains active, with the unit reporting that between 200 and 250 new cases continue to emerge daily, indicating sustained transmission across the population.