Sri Lanka dengue outbreak overwhelms hospitals as cases double

Sri Lanka is facing a severe dengue fever outbreak, with reported cases this year already double those of the same period last year. More than 45,000 infections have been recorded nationwide, and 112 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions are now classified as high‑risk zones.

Hospitals across the island are under pressure, with many wards in heavily affected districts such as Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara and Kandy nearing or reaching full capacity. Health officials warn that continued community transmission could further strain resources.

Authorities are intensifying mosquito‑control campaigns and urging residents to eliminate stagnant water and other breeding sites. Public health experts stress that sustained community participation is essential to curb the spread and prevent additional cases.