A total of 71 students at the University of Colombo have contracted dengue, with five currently receiving hospital treatment, Vice Chancellor Indika Karunathilake said.

The university has shifted lectures in several faculties to online and hybrid modes for one week while continuing academic activities.

Meanwhile, the University of Moratuwa has temporarily closed all faculties due to the dengue risk, while the University of the Visual and Performing Arts has also temporarily closed its premises.