World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Dengue epidemic continues as cases top 105,000 and deaths reach 79
Sri Lanka's dengue crisis shows no signs of abating, with confirmed cases now exceeding 105,000 and fatalities climbing to 79 this year. The Western Province remains the hardest hit region, accounting for more than half of all reported infections.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The National Dengue Control Unit reported on Wednesday that 105,097 dengue cases have been recorded across Sri Lanka in 2024, underscoring the persistent threat posed by the mosquito-borne virus. The death toll has risen to 79, reflecting the severity of infections in certain cases despite medical interventions.
The Western Province continues to bear the brunt of the outbreak, accounting for 54,673 confirmed cases—representing 52.02 per cent of the national total. This concentration of infections in the country's most densely populated region has strained healthcare resources and raised concerns among public health officials.
The figures indicate that dengue transmission remains active across the island, with the disease far from being contained. Health authorities have intensified surveillance and control measures, including vector management and public awareness campaigns, as they work to curb further spread.
Experts have urged the public to remain vigilant in implementing preventative measures such as eliminating standing water around homes and using insect repellents to reduce mosquito breeding grounds and personal exposure risk.