Sri Lanka, July 1 -- With over 54,000 dengue cases and 31 deaths being reported in the country, medical experts warn that the country's healthcare system would be crippled if more cases surge. A majority of patients reported so far are women, and medical experts suspect whether this is due to a delay in seeking treatment. During a special media briefing, medical experts advised public to refrain from doing self-diagnosis and to seek treatment immediately.

Public support requested

Even though medical experts forewarned about a surge in dengue cases a few weeks ago, people too, weren't keen to prepare for it, said Dr. Manilka Sumanatilleke, President, Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA).

"The situation at present is critical as hospi...