Sri Lanka: Health officials report elevated dengue fever activity nationwide through June

Event

Sri Lankan authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity during 2022, with 19,339 cases reported nationwide from Jan. 1-June 3. Officials reported 5,176 cases over a similar period in 2021. Colombo (3,276 cases), Gampaha (2,351cases), and Jaffna (1,812 cases) are the most affected districts. This is the most complete data as of June 7.

Context

Continuing high dengue fever activity is likely in the coming months as wet, hot, and humid conditions prevail in Sri Lanka. Authorities reported 25,067 dengue fever cases in Sri Lanka in 2021, 31,162 cases in 2020, and 105,049 cases in 2019. Dengue fever is a nationwide and year-round risk in Sri Lanka, but transmission rates are typically highest May-July and October-January.

A dengue fever vaccine is available in some countries. It is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in a country with a high dengue fever burden. 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/or 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.