The National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) yesterday announced that the health authorities would launch a nationwide mosquito control week from 30 June to 05 July across 16 high-risk districts.
The campaign had been in response to a surge in mosquito density driven by ongoing southwest monsoon rains, said Dr. Priscilla Samaraweera, Community Specialist at the NDCU, speaking at a press briefing in Colombo.
“This programme will target 111 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions. Our teams will carry out inspections in vulnerable areas to detect and destroy mosquito breeding sites,” Dr. Samaraweera said. “Red notices will be issued to premises found to be maintaining breeding grounds, and legal action will follow where necessary.”
The move comes amid a concerning rise in dengue cases, with 26,775 infections and 14 related deaths reported so far this year. The Western Province accounts for nearly 45% of the total cases, while high numbers have also been recorded in the Eastern, Sabaragamuwa, and Southern provinces.Dr. Samaraweera confirmed the current year’s first dengue-related child fatality and urged the public to cooperate with disease control efforts to prevent further loss of life.
By Chaminda Silva 