Several hospitals across the Western Province have reached maximum capacity due to the sharp rise in dengue patients, according to the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU).

Acting Director Dr. Kapila Kannangara said the rapid increase in cases has placed severe pressure on hospitals, making it increasingly difficult to provide adequate care for patients.

He warned that if the number of infections continues to rise, the dengue-related death toll is also likely to increase proportionately.

Commenting on the current situation, Dr. Kannangara stated that 52.4% of the country's 59,638 reported dengue cases have been recorded from the Western Province.

In response, authorities have identified 22 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions with the highest number of dengue cases across the three districts of the Western Province. A week-long special dengue control programme is currently being carried out in these high-risk areas.

He said the progress of the programme will be reviewed at the end of the week, following which authorities will decide on further measures.

Dr. Kannangara also noted that a three-phase strategy comprising short-term, medium-term, and long-term measures has been prepared to manage the outbreak.

However, he stressed that priority is currently being given to emergency short-term interventions, as the outbreak has reached a critical stage and many hospitals are operating at full capacity, placing the healthcare system under significant strain.

"The current increase in dengue cases is extremely serious. Many hospitals have already reached their maximum capacity, creating major challenges in caring for patients. If the number of cases continues to rise, the number of deaths is also likely to increase proportionately," Dr. Kannangara warned.