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| Tuesday, 25 May 2004 |
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by Bharatha Malawaraarachchi Dengue has not yet reached an epidemic level, Health authorities declared yesterday. "It has not yet reached an epidemic level, but the number of cases has gone up," a Health Ministry official told the Daily News. During this year, 2,965 cases have been reported while 14 have succumbed to the disease. "The number of cases so far during this year has increased compared to the corresponding period last year," the official added. The highest number of cases was reported from Colombo (617) while Gampaha (592) ranks second. Kandy has recorded 504 cases while Kurunegala and Trincomalee have also recorded a high prevalence of dengue. The official warned that the number of cases might increase with the intermittent rains. "People should be extra-careful about dengue. Adequate precautionary measures should be taken." Health authorities emphasised the importance of carrying out continuous environment cleaning programs to destroy dengue mosquito breeding places. The Ministry urged the public to clear breeding places of dengue mosquitoes by getting rid of cans, tins, coconut shells, old tyres, small containers and roof gutters where rainwater gets collected. "The elimination of mosquitoes-breeding places is the key to an effective and sustainable preventive strategy," the Ministry said. Health officials advise the public to seek early medical advice and treatment from the nearest medical institution if dengue fever is suspected. |
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