Forty inmates at the Negombo Prison have been diagnosed with dengue, the Chief Public Health Inspector (PHI) of Negombo has revealed.He made this disclosure during the Negombo District Coordination Committee meeting held yesterday (July 02).

The PHI said several of the infected inmates are currently receiving treatment, with 02 patients being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).He pointed out that water has accumulated in abandoned boat parts along the Negombo Lagoon near the prison, as well as in items kept as court exhibits within the Negombo Court Complex, creating mosquito breeding grounds.He also alleged that although court officials had been informed of the issue, no adequate remedial measures had been taken.

Meanwhile, hospital sources said more than 100 dengue patients are currently receiving treatment at the Negombo Hospital, while 02 patients admitted with the disease have succumbed.