Dengue surge in some areas

Nadira GUNATILLEKE

A total of 15,900 dengue cases and 78 dengue deaths have been reported from all parts of the country to date this year.

A downward trend is noticed in the spread of dengue fever but in certain areas in some districts an increase is shown, National Dengue Control Programme Director Dr Ranjith Batuwantudawa said.

Dr Batuwantudawa said certain areas in Colombo, Gampaha, Kegalle and Kurunegala districts show an increase in dengue cases. "Rains have ceased and containers are lying without water.

'This is the ideal time to remove containers retaining water.

'This is because the dengue mosquito larvae can survive up to 12 months without water and breed mosquitoes as soon as it rains," he said.

Dr Batuwantudawa said the public should pay special attention to destroy empty and dry containers harbouring dengue mosquito larvae.

"Otherwise a sudden increase in dengue fever can be experienced after the rains. This happened on many occasions in the past. It is important to destroy all empty containers now," he said.