Dengue, Leptospirosis show upward trend during rainy seasons

Nadira Gunatilleke

Nearly 26,000 dengue cases and 85 deaths were reported countrywide this year while the number of dengue cases reported during this month is nearly 2,300, Epidemiology Unit sources said.

According to the sources, the most affected districts are Colombo, Gampaha, Ratnapura, Kegalle and Kurunegala. The Colombo Municipal Council recorded 1,809 dengue cases by August 22 while the other areas of the Colombo district recorded 4,490 dengue cases by the same date.

The number of dengue cases has gone up, but, the number of deaths had been gone down when comparing with previous years. Meanwhile, the number of Leptospirosis (Rat Fever) cases reported countrywide up to this month is 1,461. "Most Leptospirosis cases were reported from Ratnapura (191). Kalutara(146), Kegalle (128), Gampaha(125), Colombo(110 cases)," sources said.

"Dengue and Leptospirosis show an upward trend during rainy seasons. Patients affected by both diseases can be saved if treated at the early stages. Dengue can be prevented by destroying all mosquito breeding sites located inside and outside of buildings and in the environment. Immediate medical treatment should be sought from a qualified doctor/hospital if suffering from fever for over two or three days," Epidemiology Unit sources added.

"Leptospirosis can be prevented by avoiding coming into contact with contaminated water when working in paddy fields. Free medication is available with PHIs and at MOH offices,"sources added.