Health authorities have placed 14 districts on alert following a sharp rise in dengue cases, with 36,168 infections reported across Sri Lanka as of J05 une.

The National Dengue Control Unit stated that 20 dengue-related deaths, including three children, have been reported so far this year.

Director Kapila Kannangara noted that a special dengue control programme will be conducted from June 8 to 10 in 72 high-risk MOH divisions, while warning that legal action may be taken against those who obstruct prevention efforts.