Sri Lanka Reports 8,500–9,500 TB Cases Annually; Colombo Emerges As Key Hotspot

Sri Lanka reports between 8,500 and 9,500 cases of Tuberculosis each year, according to a senior official from the National Programme for Tuberculosis Control and Chest Diseases. The country identified 8,726 patients in 2025, reflecting a persistent public health concern.

Consultant community physician Mizaya Cader stated that nearly 75 per cent of cases involve pulmonary TB.

Around 5,500 individuals carry infectious bacteria capable of transmission. She highlighted that nearly 45 per cent of infections originate from the Western Province.

Urban clusters in the Colombo District remain key hotspots. Areas such as Modara, Mattakkuliya, Borella, Wanathamulla, and Grandpass report high case density due to population concentration.

Health officials anticipate a modest decline of approximately 500 cases in the coming year.

Tuberculosis spreads through airborne particles when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or spit. The disease primarily affects the lungs but remains both preventable and treatable.

Globally, nearly one-quarter of the population carries TB bacteria. Most infected individuals remain asymptomatic and non-contagious.

About 5 to 10 per cent develop active disease over time. Children and infants face higher vulnerability once infected.

Treatment relies on antibiotic therapy, which proves effective when administered promptly.

Without intervention, TB can become fatal. Preventive measures include the BCG vaccine, administered in several countries to protect children from severe forms and reduce mortality.

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