The number of dengue cases reported so far this year has risen to 78,125, the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) has confirmed.

Accordingly, 1,097 new cases were reported yesterday (21).

According to the latest NDCU data, 162 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) divisions across the country continue to be identified as high-risk areas for dengue transmission.

A significant increase in dengue cases has been observed over the past few months, with 8,590 cases reported in May, 21,535 cases in June, and 22,749 cases recorded during the first 21 days of July alone.

A total of 56 dengue-related deaths have been reported this year, with the case fatality rate standing at 0.07%.

At the provincial level, the Western Province has recorded the highest number of cases, accounting for 41,236 infections, or 52.78% of the national total.

The Southern Province has reported 11,950 cases (15.30%), followed by the Central Province with 6,603 cases (8.45%).

At the district level, Gampaha has recorded the highest number of cases, with 16,478 reported infections. Colombo District has reported 15,540 cases.

Meanwhile, 5,454 cases have been reported from Matara District, 5,228 from Kandy District, and 5,135 from Kalutara District.

Health authorities have urged the general public to keep their surroundings clean and free of mosquito breeding sites and to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms of fever.