The National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) has stated that a total of 8,043 dengue cases have been reported across Sri Lanka during the first 20 days of August.

The NDCU further states that the total number of dengue cases reported island-wide so far this year has risen to 93,381, with 71 dengue-related deaths recorded. 

The dengue case fatality rate currently stands at 0.076%, officials said.

Although 8,043 cases were reported during the first 20 days of August, a slight decline is observed in August compared to the 29,964 cases recorded in July and 21,533 cases reported in June. 

Additionally, 52.94% of the total cases, amounting to 49,440 patients, have been reported from the Western Province.

The Southern Province has recorded 13,697 cases, while 8,441 cases have been reported from the Central Province.

At district level, Gampaha has recorded the highest number of cases at 19,888, followed by Colombo District with 18,535 and Kandy District with 6,755.

Meanwhile, Matara, Kalutara, Galle and Ratnapura districts have reported 6,077, 6,040, 5,122 and 4,979 cases, respectively and a total of 3,760 cases have been reported from the Colombo Municipal Council area.

A total of 76 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) areas across the island continue to be identified as high-risk areas for dengue, officials said.

Health authorities further urge the public to maintain clean surroundings by eliminating mosquito breeding sites and to seek prompt medical treatment if suffering from a fever.