Media reported on the 23rd that Sri Lanka has recorded 47,530 dengue cases
year-to-date and 29 deaths. The National Dengue Control Unit said 1,069 new
cases were reported on the 21st; the unit’s acting director on the 22nd said the
surge has sharply increased hospital visits and is placing heavy strain on the
health system. The deputy health minister said a recent virus mutation is among
the reasons for the rapid rise and that the currently circulating strain appears
more transmissible than strains seen in prior outbreaks.
