By: Isuru Parakrama Colombo (LNW): Intensified by rainy conditions, a major increase in the number of dengue cases can be expected in Sri Lanka, and the record in 2023 so far is three times higher than that of the corresponding period of the last two years, revealed Deputy Director of Medical Services Dr. G. Wijesuriya. The majority of cases are from the Colombo and Gampaha districts, and the people are advised to take measures such as destroying habitats available for mosquitoes, using mosquito repellents, not letting water stagnate and wearing protective clothing, Dr. Wijesuriya told media. He added that a total of 45 children are currently receiving treatment for dengue at the Lady Ridgeway Children’s Hospital, and a majority of children infected are between the ages 05 – 14. Despite any congestion being non-existent in normal hospital wards, minor congestion could be observed at Intensive Care Units in several hospitals, he went on, adding that in the case of children, there are several children being treated for dengue haemorrhagic fever.