The Colombo District Dengue Control Committee has decided to implement a special Dengue Prevention Week from 15 to 21 June in an effort to control the disease, as Colombo District is currently facing a severe risk of dengue transmission.

This decision was taken at a meeting of the Colombo District Dengue Control Committee held today (12 June) at the Colombo District Secretariat, chaired by Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya.It was also revealed that the number of dengue cases reported this year has increased significantly compared with last year. According to reports from the National Dengue Control Unit, approximately 39,100 dengue cases have been reported island-wide to date.Of that total, 25.8% of cases have been reported from Colombo District.It was further disclosed that, in addition to the characteristics of the virus itself, the lack of sufficient time for the public to develop adequate immunity against it has contributed to the increased spread of the disease.Health authorities have also pointed out that dengue transmission has intensified once again following the period of heavy rainfall experienced in recent months.It has been identified that the current outbreak is being reported more frequently from public places such as government institutions, private-sector establishments, schools, and places of worship than from residential premises.

Observations have found that improperly managed solid waste and drainage systems in offices and public places have become major breeding grounds for mosquitoes.