Sri Lanka has ordered universities to close to in-person activities and shift classes online amid a rapid rise in dengue cases, as health authorities warn the outbreak is worsening and campuses could become hotspots for transmission.

Several universities introduced temporary online or hybrid learning arrangements to limit gatherings on campus. Officials said the measures are intended to keep academic schedules running while lowering the risk of exposure for students, lecturers, and staff.

In many institutions, administrators said affected students would be given time to rest and recover, while instruction continues through virtual platforms. University leaders also urged students to seek medical care promptly if they develop dengue symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, or body pain.

Meanwhile, public health messaging across the country has intensified around preventing mosquito breeding, including removing stagnant water around homes and workplaces and taking protective measures against mosquito bites.

Authorities said the dengue situation is being actively monitored, with additional attention directed to the areas reporting the steepest increases in cases.