There was an increase in reporting of dengue cases in ten districts. Of them, the Western Province reported a large number of patients and the fumigations continued in those areas. The Health Minister has also decided to recruit 500 field assistants to the Western Province while steps are being taken to airlift 820 fumigation machines to the island. At present, the country has only 380 machines.

Further the steps would be taken to establish three 24 hour- complaint centers in the Western Province. Police officers are due to be attached to these centers and they are responsible to immediately fumigate dengue reporting areas. Minister has also instructed to recruit daily paid labours.

As well, there is a possibility for dengue breeding in Kalmunai, Eastern Province due the dumping of garbage to the sea. So the minister informed the local government institutions to prevent such action. About 48, 682 dengue cases and 77 deaths had been reported by yesterday, the authorities said.

The national coordinator of the National Dengue Prevention Program, Dr. Hasitha Tissera added that a number of fumigations were carried out to minimize the rising of mosquito density due to the showery conditions prevailing in December and January.