The Ministry of Health says that there has been an increase in the spread of Dengue. Director of the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Paba Palihawadana said that while around 250 cases of Dengue were reported per week in September, this number has now risen to 400.

Dr. Palihawadana added that the disease has claimed the lives of 38 persons during the course of this year.

While a total of 23,007 Dengue cases have been reported this year, the highest number of cases of dengue has been reported from the Western Province.

Reports also suggest that there is a rise in the number of Dengue patients from the Northern and Eastern Provinces.

Dr. Paba Palihawadana also stated that the surge in Dengue cases could be attributed to the intermittent rains prevalent in the country.