A modified strain of the dengue virus is contributing to the current spread of the disease in Sri Lanka, increasing the risk of infection among the population, the Deputy Minister of Health, Hansaka Wijemuni stated.

Addressing media, the Deputy Health Minister stated that the virus currently in circulation contains several changes compared to previous strains and has not been widely encountered by the local population before.

As a result, a larger number of people may be susceptible to infection, he warned, noting that health authorities had anticipated a periodic rise in dengue cases and had made preparations accordingly.

"We knew that situations like this arise from time to time, and we have remained prepared because dengue cases tend to increase periodically. However, the virus circulating this time has several differences from the strains we have seen before. Since many people in Sri Lanka have not previously been exposed to this variant, there is a greater tendency for the disease to spread among a larger segment of the population," he said.

Deputy Minister Wijemuni said the government is taking all necessary measures to contain the outbreak, with efforts focused on reducing mosquito populations and ensuring patients receive timely treatment before their condition worsens.

He also called on the general public to play an active role in controlling the spread of dengue by eliminating mosquito breeding sites and supporting prevention efforts.

"The government will do everything possible from its side, but the public also has a significant responsibility. We urge everyone to do their utmost to help prevent the spread of dengue," he added.