Sri Lanka is facing its worst dengue outbreak in nearly a decade, with over 76,044 infections and 53 deaths reported since January 2026.The government has deployed military forces and air force drones to combat the crisis, targeting mosquito breeding sites in homes, schools, and religious institutions.

The use of drones helps identify stagnant water pools on rooftops, while military personnel assist in inspecting buildings and clearing breeding grounds.Health officials warn that the outbreak, exacerbated by a more virulent Denv-2 strain, could surpass the 2017 epidemic's 100,000-case toll.Hospitals are overwhelmed, with some facilities adding beds and extending staff hours to manage the influx of patients.The cyclone Ditwah, which caused $1.4bn in damages, has further strained healthcare resources.Authorities are considering a dengue vaccine but face challenges due to the virus's complexity.Public health workers are stretched thin, and experts caution that the outbreak may worsen as monsoon rains return in November.

The government's emergency cleanup efforts have cleared 11,000 breeding sites, but fines are being imposed on premises found to harbor mosquitoes.Patients with mild symptoms are advised to recover at home to reduce hospital pressure.