28,000+ Dengue Cases Spark Mosquito Control Drive Across 16 Districts

COLOMBO (News 1st); The National Mosquito Eradication Week officially begins today and will continue until July 5, as Sri Lanka intensifies efforts to combat the alarming rise in mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya.

Triggered by recent heavy rainfall and a surge in reported cases over the past few months, the campaign aims to reduce mosquito breeding grounds and raise public awareness.

According to the National Dengue Control Unit, a total of 28,752 dengue cases have been reported across the island so far this year, with the Western Province recording the highest number. Tragically, 16 dengue-related deaths have also been confirmed during this period.

The week-long initiative will cover 16 districts, with 1,100 teams deployed to conduct targeted mosquito control operations.

These include inspections, clean-up drives, and public education campaigns, particularly in high-risk areas identified by health authorities.

Dr. Prashila Samarawira, a specialist in community health at the National Dengue Control Unit, emphasized that the program will focus on high-risk Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions and vulnerable communities.