Leading virologist Dr. Neelika Malavige yesterday said that Sri Lanka was currently facing the worst chikungunya outbreak in almost 20 years.
The mosquito-borne viral disease, which causes high fever and severe joint pain, is spreading rapidly across the country.
In post shared on social media platform X, Dr. Malavige has revealed that her research team has carried out whole genome sequencing to analyse the virus strain fuelling the current surge. This analysis will help determine whether the outbreak is due to a new viral introduction or a resurgence of an older variant that had previously circulated in the country.
Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni said that the number of chikungunya and dengue cases was steadily increasing. He urged the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, particularly stagnant water sources, and to take preventive measures to stop further transmission.
“Anyone experiencing fever should seek medical attention immediately,” Dr. Wijemuni said