Dengue outbreak alert!
- Surge in mosquito breeding places observed
- Health officials issue warning of possible severity of dengue outbreak
The Health Ministry has already implemented several dengue prevention initiatives to prevent any epidemic situation in the future.
As per a communiqué issued by National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) Director Dr. Sudath Samaraweera 71 divisions in 15 districts had been identified as high risk zones for dengue fever.
The increased rainfall induced by the Southeast monsoon prompted health officials to issue a warning about the possible severity of the dengue outbreak.
The unfavourable weather exacerbated mosquito breeding, accelerating the spread of the disease, and the number of patients admitted to the hospital increased.
Dr. Samaraweera said that the NDCU carried out a survey between May 26 and June 1 and observed a surge in mosquito breeding places.
He further said that the dengue cases reported from January to April remained relatively low. But a surge of cases could be expected from May onwards with the onset of southwest monsoon.
According to him, nearly 25,000 cases have been reported so far this year with nine deaths.
Medical experts urged people to seek immediate medical attention if they suffer from high fever, uncontrolled vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness and reduced urination.
“All fever patients need rest and should refrain from attending work or school,” said epidemiologists, adding that Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) can be fatal.
The Health authorities urged the public to prevent the usage of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, diclofenac sodium and steroids such as prednisone and dexamethasone since they can cause complications and sometimes even death. Patients with fever have been instructed to take paracetamol in prescribed doses at regular intervals.
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