Dengue larvae found in 40 pct of inspected schools in Sri Lanka: health official-Xinhua

Colombo, Sri Lanka is facing a growing public health concern as recent surveys indicate a rise in dengue fever risk. Inspections conducted by the Sri Lankan Ministry of Health revealed that 40 percent of schools inspected harbored dengue mosquito larvae.

Rising Dengue Cases in Schools

Acting Director of the National Dengue Control Unit, Kapila Kannangara, reported the increase in larvae detection during a press briefing on Saturday. This finding underscores the ongoing challenge of controlling dengue transmission within the country.

Public Health Response

Health authorities are actively continuing inspection and prevention campaigns. These efforts are focused on reducing mosquito breeding sites and limiting the spread of the disease. Fumigation activities are also underway at centres hosting the General Certificate of Education (Ordinary Level) examinations to protect students and staff.

Did You Know? Sri Lanka recorded over 51,000 dengue cases in 2025.

Sri Lankan health officials consistently urge communities and schools to eliminate stagnant water sources and maintain clean surroundings. These preventative measures are crucial in reducing mosquito breeding and curbing the transmission of dengue fever.

Expert Insight: The detection of dengue larvae in a significant percentage of schools highlights the need for sustained and coordinated public health interventions. Maintaining vigilance and proactive measures are essential to protect vulnerable populations, particularly students, from this potentially debilitating disease.

The situation could lead to increased public health campaigns and potentially stricter regulations regarding sanitation in public spaces. A possible next step may involve increased collaboration between health authorities and educational institutions to implement more effective prevention strategies. Analysts expect continued monitoring of dengue cases and breeding sites to inform future interventions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of schools were found to have dengue larvae?

Forty percent of the schools inspected by Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Health were found to have dengue larvae.

What is being done to protect students during exams?

Fumigation activities are being carried out at centres hosting the General Certificate of Education (Ordinary Level) examinations.

What are health officials urging communities to do?

Health officials are urging communities to eliminate stagnant water and maintain clean surroundings to reduce mosquito breeding.

How can communities best work with health officials to address this growing public health concern?