Colombo: Sri Lanka is facing a major public health challenge as dengue fever cases continue to rise across the country, with health authorities reporting more than 44,000 infections and 28 deaths so far this year. Officials have warned that the outbreak is likely to worsen in the coming weeks before signs of improvement begin to emerge.
The latest figures released by the National Dengue Control Unit show that the mosquito borne disease has spread rapidly during the first half of 2026. Hospitals in several districts are treating large numbers of patients, while public health teams are working to contain the outbreak through inspections, awareness campaigns, and mosquito control measures.
According to health officials, the number of infections increased sharply during the second quarter of the year. More than 10,600 cases were recorded during the first half of June alone, compared with around 5,600 cases reported in April. The surge has raised concerns among medical experts who fear that the country could experience one of its worst dengue seasons in recent years if the current trend continues.
The Western Province remains the hardest hit region, accounting for more than half of all reported cases. Colombo and its surrounding areas have seen particularly high infection rates due to dense populations and favourable conditions for mosquito breeding. Several other districts have also reported thousands of cases, indicating that the outbreak is widespread rather than limited to a few regions.
Health authorities say the current outbreak has been driven by a combination of environmental and seasonal factors. One of the key reasons is the impact of Cyclone Ditwah, which struck Sri Lanka late last year. The cyclone left behind damaged infrastructure, debris, and numerous areas of stagnant water. These conditions created ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, the insects responsible for transmitting dengue fever.
The ongoing monsoon season has further complicated the situation. Heavy rains have increased the number of water filled containers, blocked drains, and flooded areas where mosquitoes can reproduce. Public health experts say that unless communities actively remove these breeding sites, infection numbers could continue to rise.
Earlier in the year, health officials had already warned that dengue cases were increasing at an unusual pace. By January, more than 2,000 infections had been reported. The figure rose steadily throughout February, March, and April before accelerating significantly in May and June. The steady increase has placed additional pressure on hospitals, especially paediatric wards, as children account for several of the recorded deaths.
In response, the Sri Lankan government has intensified nationwide dengue prevention efforts. Large scale mosquito eradication campaigns have been launched in schools, construction sites, public institutions, and residential areas. Health inspectors have conducted thousands of property checks and have urged residents to eliminate standing water from their surroundings. Authorities have also warned that legal action may be taken against individuals or businesses that fail to remove mosquito breeding sites.
Medical professionals are encouraging people to seek immediate treatment if they develop symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, joint pain, muscle aches, skin rashes, or persistent vomiting. Early diagnosis and medical care can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications and fatalities.
Public awareness campaigns are also being expanded through television, radio, and social media to educate citizens about prevention measures. Community groups and local authorities have joined efforts to clean neighbourhoods and reduce mosquito habitats.
Health experts expect the outbreak to remain a serious concern throughout the coming weeks. While authorities hope that ongoing control measures will eventually slow the spread of the disease, they stress that public cooperation will be essential in preventing further infections.
With dengue continuing to threaten communities across Sri Lanka, officials are urging citizens to remain vigilant and take preventive action as the country works to contain one of its most significant outbreaks in recent years.