Why is Sri Lanka’s dengue outbreak straining its public health sector? | Explained - The Hindu

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Updated - June 24, 2026 02:45 pm IST

A worker from the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) department fumigates a residential area during a mosquito control programme in Colombo, Sri Lanka. File | Photo Credit: Reuters

The story so far: Sri Lanka is grappling with a major dengue outbreak amid a surge in cases reported over the past few months. The National Dengue Control Unit has reported a total of 47,530 cases and 29 dengue-related deaths as of June 22, 2026. In order to respond to what has now become a significant public health challenge, the government decided to appoint a military-led monitoring unit. The President’s Office announced this decision in a statement issued on June 22, 2026.

Yes, cases are being reported from different parts of the island, but capital Colombo is witnessing the highest number of cases among the island’s districts, with nearly 10,000 cases as of June 22, 2026.

Published - June 24, 2026 10:08 am IST

Sri Lanka / World / disease / health

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