More than 25,000 dengue cases had been reported and nine dengue patients had died during that period in the past five months.
National Dengue Control Unit Director Consultant Dr. Sudath Samaraweera told a press conference held at the Presidential Media Center on Thursday (6) that due to the current flood situation, the dengue disease may develop into an epidemic and full public support is essential for the government’s plan to control dengue.
He said that this is not only a health problem but also an economic and social problem and the Health Ministry alone cannot control dengue without the public’s assistance.
Consultant Dr.Anoja Dheerasinghe, Community Medical Officer of the National Dengue Control Unit said that there is an increase in the number of cases reported, especially in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Ratnapura, Kandy, Kegalle and Kurunegala districts. She said that the best way to eradicate dengue is to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and it is the responsibility of the people to remove mosquito breeding places at home, school or workplace. National Drug Regulatory Authority Chairman Dr.Ananda Wijewickrema, a specialist at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, said that if there are symptoms such as high fever, body pain, vomiting, severe headache, and diarrhea during this period, it is important to think of it as dengue.
He further said that if there these symptoms exist, it is essential to take physical rest first and not to take painkillers or any other drugs other than paracetamol. The consultant doctor said that if symptoms persist for more than two days, a complete blood test (FBC) should be done and medical advice should be sought from a government hospital, and one should make sure to consume liquids containing salt and minerals like porridge, Jeevani, thambili and lime. He said that it is important not to take liquids containing chemicals or red coloured drinks.
The post Over 25,000 dengue patients in last five months appeared first on DailyNews.