The National Dengue Control Unit reports 86,000 dengue infections recorded since January, with July marking the peak month and 62 deaths recorded so far this year.
Sri Lanka is experiencing a significant dengue outbreak, with the National Dengue Control Unit documenting 86,000 cases from the start of 2024 through early August. July emerged as the most severe month of the epidemic, accounting for 29,980 infections. The momentum has continued into the new month, with 646 additional cases reported during just the first two days of August.
The geographic distribution of cases reveals concerning patterns across the country's populated areas. Gampaha District leads in case numbers with 18,249 infections reported, followed closely by Colombo District with 17,048 cases. The widespread nature of the outbreak is underscored by the identification of 137 Medical Officer of Health divisions classified as high-risk dengue zones.
The human toll of the epidemic has mounted considerably, with the dengue-related death toll reaching 62 individuals. As the outbreak continues into the second half of the year, public health authorities remain focused on containment efforts across the identified risk zones.
