Kandy faces high dengue risk

With seven high-risk dengue zones identified within the Kandy Municipal Council area, the municipality has decided to take strict legal action against individuals who dispose of garbage improperly.

The decision was unanimously taken by the Municipal Council, led by the Mayor, as part of efforts to bring the city out of the high dengue risk situation.

In the past week alone, 108 dengue patients were reported within the Kandy municipal limits, with most cases recorded around areas such as Kandy Police Station, Peradeniya Road, Bahirawakanda, Nittawela Dewi Road, and Hiraessagala.

Kandy Municipal Chief Medical Officer Dr. Krishantha Masatchi said that inspections of mosquito breeding sites had revealed a large number of improperly discarded plastic yogurt cups and drink bottles thrown into the environment by the public.

He disclosed these details at a meeting held today (06) at the Kandy Municipal Council Hall to brief the media on measures taken to control the spread of dengue in the city area.

He noted that although there had been a slight increase in cases from January to May–June, a significant surge was observed over the past two weeks. He further stated that the improper disposal of water-collecting items such as plastic and glass bottles could reasonably be described as an act akin to attempted manslaughter.

He also said that 110 patients are currently receiving treatment at the Kandy National Hospital and 90 patients at the Peradeniya Teaching Hospital.

The meeting was held under the leadership of Deputy Mayor Ruwan Galapitiya.