Sri Lanka: Elevated dengue fever activity reported nationwide through May

Event

Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity nationwide in Sri Lanka, with more than 33,000 suspected cases reported Jan. 1-May 14. This is 1.7 times higher than the 19,908 cases reported over a similar period in 2022. The Western Province (15,746 cases) is the most affected province, followed by the North West Province (3,458 cases), the Central Province (2,401 cases), the Southern Province (1,966 cases), and the Northern Province (1,326 cases). Sri Lankan health officials have implemented a comprehensive disease prevention program, including destroying dengue-carrying mosquitoes in the surrounding areas, fumigating, conducting spot checks, and identifying mosquito larvae. This represents the most complete information available as of May 15.

Context

Dengue fever is a nationwide, year-round threat in Sri Lanka, however, risk is typically highest May-July and October-January. Sri Lanka reported roughly 76,467 dengue fever cases nationwide in 2022, 36,120 cases in 2021, and 31,162 cases in 2020.

A dengue fever vaccine is available in some countries. It is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in countries with high dengue fever burdens. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: a severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated promptly.

Advice

If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.