Island-Wide Dengue Control Program Launched in Response to Surge in Cases.

(CTN News) – The National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) has recently announced a comprehensive five-day mosquito control program in response to the increasing number of dengue fever cases.

This program will be implemented across six provinces, namely the Western, Southern, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Northern, and Eastern provinces.

Dr. Nalin Ariyaratne, the Director of the NDUC, highlighted the significant rise in dengue cases with the onset of the inter-monsoon season.

To effectively combat this issue, a two-day entomology survey will be conducted in the targeted provinces before the program’s implementation. This survey aims to identify mosquito breeding sites and determine the distribution of mosquito species.

The data collected from the survey will play a crucial role in determining the appropriate deployment of control measures, including larviciding, fogging, and community outreach initiatives.

These measures will be specifically tailored to the identified areas to ensure maximum effectiveness.

As of today, Sri Lanka has reported a worrisome total of 82,036 dengue cases and 49 deaths in 2023. Given the urgency of the situation, the NDUC emphasizes the importance of both individual and community-level preventive measures.

Everyone must take proactive steps to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes and protect themselves from dengue fever.

Dengue Prevention: Enhancing Public Awareness

If any of the following symptoms occur, it is crucial to promptly seek medical assistance: high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and vomiting. Dengue fever, which is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, is known for causing these symptoms.

Measures aimed at prevention comprise:

 

To prevent mosquito bites, it is advisable to use insect repellent that contains effective ingredients. Additionally, wearing long sleeves and pants, particularly during the peak mosquito hours of dawn and dusk, can provide added protection.

To eliminate mosquito habitats, it is important to get rid of stagnant water sources in and around homes, as these serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Engaging in community clean-up drives can also contribute to mosquito control. By regularly removing potential breeding sites such as discarded tires and containers, we can help reduce the mosquito population.

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