Risk of Dengue re-emerges in Sri Lanka; eradication efforts in 03 districts

COLOMBO (News 1st): The risk of resurgence of Dengue has emerged with the prevailing showery conditions, health authorities warned on Wednesday (May 05). "A Special Dengue Eradication Programme will be conducted across the three districts of Colombo, Kalutara, and Galle districts that are identified as Dengue High-risk Zones starting today (05)," Dr. Aruna Jayasekara, the Director at the National Dengue Control Unit told News 1st. Legal action will be instituted against those who do not clean their surroundings to prevent the spread of Dengue, Dr. Jayasekara further emphasized. According to Dr. Jayasekara, during the course of this year, around 6000 Dengue patients have been reported in the country so far. Whilst pointing out that compared to last year's first 04 months there is a reduction in the rate of Dengue cases, Dr. Jayasekara warned of the risk in the spread of Dengue mosquitoes during the upcoming monsoon season and also given the prevailing COVID-19 situation that hinders Dengue Eradication efforts.