The data reveals 968 suspected cases recorded alone this week, which highlights an increase from 917 the previous week. The Western Province is the most affected region, contributing 51.3% of the total cases nationwide. Colombo District alone accounts for nearly 30 per cent of the total cases.

The NDCU has flagged 15 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) areas as high-risk zones, with newly identified hotspots such as Nawalapitiya, Harispattuwa, Kolonnawa, and Mahara showing an increase in cases which adds to the previously flagged districts which are Kandy, Gampaha, Colombo, Ratnapura, Galle, Kalutara, Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mannar and ColomboSouth.

The Jaffna District has witnessed a dramatic 133% increase in cases, while other areas in the Northern Province, including Kilinochchi and Mannar, have also seen sharp upticks.

Hospitalisations are also on the rise. The average midnight total of dengue patients in 74 selected hospitals was 317 in the 33rd week, with 19 hospitals reporting an increase in admissions.

BY HUZEFA ALIASGER