COLOMBO, Feb. 16 -- Sri Lankan health authorities have warned of a potential surge in dengue infections with the approaching Southwest Monsoon, as the number of reported cases this year climbed to 9,480.

The National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) of the Ministry of Health said the combination of increased rainfall and stagnant water could accelerate mosquito breeding and drive up transmission in the coming weeks.

Officials noted that the Western Province has recorded the highest caseload so far, accounting for more than half of the total infections reported nationwide. Other districts are also reporting a steady rise in suspected and confirmed cases, prompting heightened surveillance and preparedness measures.

In response, the Ministry of...