Dengue risk to persist for next three weeks, Health Minister warns

Cabinet Spokesperson and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has stated that the heightened risk of dengue transmission is expected to continue for the next three weeks.The Minister said that while the spread of dengue is presently under a certain level of control, the period leading up to mid-August remains a high-risk period.He noted that dengue case reporting has shown signs of control in several districts, with the exception of three districts, and emphasized the need for continuous cleaning of public and private premises to prevent the spread of the disease.Minister Jayatissa stated that instructions have been issued to all state institutions to continue dengue prevention activities without interruption, adding that these measures will remain a priority over the next three weeks.“Dengue cannot be controlled by conducting cleaning campaigns on a single day. Mosquito breeding sites continue to emerge, particularly due to the prevailing rainy conditions. Even within our homes, mosquito larvae can breed in places that often go unnoticed. Therefore, these preventive activities must be carried out continuously,” the Minister said.He further stated that the public health authorities, including Medical Officer of Health (MOH) and Public Health Inspector (PHI) officers, should remain actively involved in prevention efforts, including fogging activities where necessary.The Minister urged the public to remain vigilant and pay attention to even small areas where mosquito breeding could occur, emphasizing the importance of sustained efforts to control dengue transmission.