July 21, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s dengue outbreak has continued to intensify, with three more fatalities reported over the past 24 hours, raising the total number of dengue-related deaths this year to 56.
The latest figures released by the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) show that the country has now recorded more than 77,000 dengue infections in 2026, highlighting the sustained spread of the mosquito-borne disease. Nearly 1,000 new cases were confirmed yesterday alone, with 984 infections added to the national tally.
Health authorities have also identified 162 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions as high-risk areas, where dengue transmission remains a significant concern. Officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites as the disease continues to spread.
The surge in infections has gathered pace in recent months. While 8,590 cases were reported in May, the number more than doubled to 21,537 in June. The upward trend has continued into July, with 21,650 infections recorded during the first 20 days of the month, indicating that the overall caseload is likely to rise further before month-end.
Despite the growing number of infections, the case fatality rate remains relatively low at 0.07 per cent, according to official data.
The Western Province continues to account for the largest share of reported cases, with 40,573 infections, representing 52.67 per cent of the national total. The Southern Province has reported 11,867 cases, while the Central Province has recorded 6,492 infections.
Among the districts, Gampaha remains the worst affected, reporting 16,164 dengue cases so far this year. Colombo follows closely with 15,314 confirmed infections, underscoring the continued concentration of cases in the country’s most densely populated areas.
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