The total number of dengue cases reported so far this year has risen to 76,044, according to the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU).

The NDCU said 2,652 cases were reported yesterday (19) alone.

According to the latest data, 162 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions across the island continue to be identified as high-risk dengue zones.

A significant increase in dengue infections has been observed over the past few months. The NDCU reported 8,590 cases in May, 21,537 cases in June, and 20,666 cases during the first 19 days of July.

A total of 53 dengue-related deaths have been reported this year, with the case fatality rate standing at 0.07%.

The Western Province has recorded the highest number of cases, accounting for 40,009 infections (52.61%) of the national total. It is followed by the Southern Province with 11,707 cases (15.40%) and the Central Province with 6,431 cases (8.46%).

At the district level, Gampaha has reported the highest number of dengue cases, with 15,910 infections. Colombo District has recorded 15,110 cases, including 3,073 cases reported within the Colombo Municipal Council area.

Meanwhile, Matara has reported 5,330 cases, Kandy 5,111 cases, and Kalutara 5,010 cases.

Health authorities have urged the public to keep their surroundings clean to prevent mosquito breeding, particularly due to the ongoing rainy weather, and to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms of fever.