News
Dengue already at epidemic level
Sri Lanka was facing a major dengue outbreak with the number of cases already reaching epidemic levels, Senior Consultant Physician at the Infectious Diseases Hospital (IDH), Dr. Ananda Wijewickrama told the media on Thursday.
Dr. Wijewickrama said that according to the Epidemiology Unit, the total number of cases reported for 2023 had risen to 34,527. Nearly 50% of them were from the Western Province, with Gampaha, Colombo, and Kalutara reporting the highest number of cases, he said.
Dr. Wijewickrama warned that the worst was yet to come. The number of patients is likely to increase in June and July, and that Sri Lanka was already experiencing an epidemic.
Dr. Wijewickrama urged people to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, use mosquito nets, wear long sleeved garments, and apply mosquito repellent. He also said that people should empty containers that can hold water such as flowerpots and buckets, to prevent mosquito breeding.
The Ministry of Health has launched a nationwide campaign to educate people on dengue prevention. The government has also deployed teams to clear mosquito breeding grounds.
Despite these efforts, the dengue epidemic is still a major threat to public health here and people are urged to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites. (RK)
The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sahyadri arrived at the Port of Colombo on a formal visit on Friday [04 Apr 25]. The visiting ship was welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in compliance with naval traditions.
INS Sahyadri is a 143m long Frigate manned by a crew of 320 and the ship is commanded by Captain Rajat Kumar.
During their visit to the crew of INS Sahyadri will participate in events hosted by the Sri Lanka Navy, aimed to strengthen bilateral ties. They will also visit several tourist hotspots across the country.
Concluding the visit, INS Sahyadri is scheduled to set sail from Colombo on 07 Apr
Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) BUNGO and ETAJIMA which arrived in Sri Lanka on a goodwill visit on 01 Apr 25, departed the island on Friday [04 Apr].
The Sri Lanka Navy bade customary farewell to the departing ships at the Port of Colombo, following naval traditions. Upon leaving, the duo of ships engaged in a successful Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with SLNS Vijayabahu. The PASSEX involved training exercises in communication and tactical maneuvering, concluding with the traditional cheer ship salute.
During their stay in Colombo, crew members of the JMSDF ships took part in several programmes organized by the Sri Lanka Navy, aimed at enhancing mutual cooperation. In addition, they also explored some tourist attractions in Colombo. Further, personnel of Sri Lanka Navy had the opportunity to visit JMSDF BUNGO and ETAJIMA, gaining insights into their operational capabilities.
The Commanding Officers of JMSDF BUNGO and ETAJIMA, Commander TANAKA Koji and Commander ODA Takayuki called on Commander Western Naval Area, and Director General Operations, on 01 Apr.
The official welcoming ceremony for the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, who arrived in Sri Lanka on Friday (April 4) night for a three-day state visit, is currently underway at Independence Square in Colombo.
INS Sahyadri arrives at Port of Colombo
JMSDF BUNGO and ETAJIMA depart island
Ceremonial reception for Indian PM Narendra Modi commences
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