Sri Lanka Dengue Outbreak
Sri Lanka's 2026 dengue outbreak has passed 92,000 recorded cases and 68 deaths, according to figures reported on 17 August 2026.
This page tracks the running national case count and the response, and is updated as new figures are published.
At a glance
- Cases in 2026
- More than 92,000 (as reported on 17 August 2026)
- Deaths in 2026
- 68 (as reported on 17 August 2026)
- Reported by
- National Dengue Control Unit / Epidemiology Unit
- Trend
- Rising — the count passed 90,000 on 12 August and 91,000 on 15 August 2026
How the outbreak has developed
The national count crossed 90,000 cases on 12 August 2026, passed 91,000 on 15 August, and stood above 92,000 with 68 deaths by 17 August 2026 — an increase of roughly 2,000 recorded cases in five days.
Why dengue surges in Sri Lanka
Dengue is spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which breed in small collections of clean, standing water. Case numbers characteristically climb during and after monsoon rains, when discarded containers, blocked gutters, tyres and construction sites collect water and create breeding sites close to where people live.
Reducing the risk
- Empty, cover or dispose of anything that holds standing water — buckets, tyres, tins, plant pot trays, roof gutters — at least weekly.
- Use repellent, and cover exposed skin; Aedes mosquitoes bite mainly during daylight hours, especially early morning and late afternoon.
- Use mesh screens or nets where practical, including during daytime rest.
- Seek medical advice early for a sudden high fever with severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint or muscle pain, or a rash — and urgently for warning signs such as abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums or unusual drowsiness.
Official guidance
Case figures are compiled by the National Dengue Control Unit and the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health, which also run inspection and clean-up campaigns in high-incidence areas. This page summarises published reporting; for clinical advice consult a qualified medical practitioner.
Latest Sri Lanka Dengue Outbreak news
- Sri Lanka Crosses Alarming 100,000 Dengue Cases Mark in 2025
- Sri Lanka's Dengue Crisis Deepens as Cases Cross 99,000 Mark — Gampaha Faces Gravest Threat
- Dengue Crisis Deepens: Sri Lanka Reports Alarming Case Numbers as of Late September 2026
- Sri Lanka's Dengue Crisis Deepens as Reported Cases Cross 98,000 Mark
- Sri Lanka's Dengue Crisis Deepens as Cases Surge Past 97,000 in 2026
- Sri Lanka to Launch Nationwide Five-Day Dengue Eradication Drive Across 62 Health Divisions
- Sri Lanka's Dengue Crisis Deepens as Death Toll Climbs to 73
- Sri Lanka's Dengue Crisis Deepens as Reported Cases Exceed 96,000
- Dengue Threat Remains Real Despite Drop in Case Numbers, Health Officials Warn
- Dengue Cases Continue to Demand Vigilance Across Sri Lanka as Week 34 Report Released
- Sri Lanka's Dengue Crisis Deepens as Cases Approach 95,000 and Deaths Hit 72
- Sri Lanka Turns to Nature's Own Weapons in Battle Against Dengue Epidemic
Frequently asked questions
How many dengue cases has Sri Lanka recorded in 2026?
More than 92,000 cases and 68 deaths had been recorded as of figures reported on 17 August 2026.
Is the outbreak still growing?
Yes. The national count passed 90,000 on 12 August 2026, 91,000 on 15 August and 92,000 by 17 August — roughly 2,000 additional recorded cases in five days.
What are the warning signs of severe dengue?
Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding from the gums or nose, blood in vomit or stools, rapid breathing, and unusual restlessness or drowsiness. These require urgent medical attention.
How can dengue be prevented at home?
Remove standing water around the house at least weekly, since Aedes mosquitoes breed in small collections of clean water. Use repellent and covering clothing during the day, when these mosquitoes mainly bite.