Most dengue patients from Biyagama

Biyagama has currently become the electoral division with the highest number of dengue patients reported in the country, and the dengue disease in that area has developed into a hyper-epidemic situation, stated Mr. Samantha Perera, the Senior Public Health Inspector (PHI) of Biyagama.

Within the first five months of this year alone, 1057 dengue patients have been identified from the Biyagama division. In the past week alone, 133 patients have been reported, and one dengue death has occurred in the Pamunuwila area. As pointed out by the Senior Public Health Inspector, a rapid increase in patient reports is observed from the Grama Niladhari divisions of Biyagama, East and West Walgama, Malwana, Ulahitiwala, Gonawala, East and West Heiyanthuduwa, Makola South, and Lower Yatihena.

Currently, a large number of dengue patients are receiving treatment at both government and private hospitals located in the Gampaha and Ragama areas. In addition, Gampaha District Member of Parliament Ashoka Ranwala and Heiyanthuduwa Public Health Inspector Menaka Jayasinghe have also contracted dengue, and they are currently receiving inpatient treatment at the Mulleriyawa Fever Hospital.

To control the spread of dengue, the Biyagama Pradeshiya Sabha and the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) office have jointly implemented a special program. Although fumigation, garbage removal by tractors, inspection of houses and gardens, and public awareness programs are constantly carried out, Mr. Samantha Perera emphasizes that it is impossible to escape this risky situation without the proper cooperation of the residents. For this, the initiative of the entire community, including various societies, companies, and voluntary organizations in the area, has become essential.

Health authorities advise that if a person has a fever for several days, an antigen test should be performed immediately without delay. If confirmed as a dengue patient, it is mandatory to immediately inform the local Public Health Inspector and seek medical advice. Furthermore, the Senior Public Health Inspector has pointed out that by protecting the patient from mosquito bites while at home, the spread of the disease to other family members can be prevented.