December ends with record number of Dengue cases in 2023

• December logs highest cases   
• Close to 88,000 cases in 2023 with 57 deaths 

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

The tally of Dengue cases in December stood at 11,498 recording the highest number of cases reported in a month in 2023.  

According to the Epidemiology Unit, as of December 31, a total of 87, 986 cases have been logged in 2023, with the highest number being from the Colombo District, which stood at 18,572.  

The Western Province has recorded 39,784 cases, the highest province-wise while a total of 57 individuals have died of Dengue so far last year.  

Meanwhile, the epidemiology unit has identified 71 high-risk areas.  Addressing the present scenario, Dr. Nalin Ariyaratne, Director of the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU), voiced apprehension over the country experiencing a daily average of over 250 reported cases once more.   Emphasizing the impact of ongoing rainy conditions, Dr Ariyaratne urged the public to proactively ensure cleanliness in their surroundings, eliminating potential mosquito breeding sites to effectively counter the spread of dengue.