The dengue situation in the country has escalated to an unprecedented levels, with a significant rise in cases and fatalities, surpassing all previous records.
Dengue, a mosquito-borne viral infection, is now posing a greater risk as it undergoes changes and adapts to new environments. Experts warn that the disease is no longer limited to daytime transmission and is thriving even during nighttime.
Additionally, the Aedes mosquitoes responsible for transmitting dengue are now opting for breeding grounds in both clean and dirty water sources, intensifying the challenge of controlling the outbreak.
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reports a staggering 5,865 dengue infections and 29 deaths in the first 10 days of July alone. If this trend continues, experts fear that the number of dengue cases could exceed 15,000 by the end of the month. The current death rate due to dengue in Bangladesh stands at 5.45 per thousand, surpassing the mortality rates seen in other countries.
Brigadier General Nazmul Haque, Director of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, attributes a significant number of deaths to delayed hospital visits. Many individuals mistake the initial fever as a common ailment and self-medicate, resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment. By the time dengue is diagnosed, precious time is lost, and patients face an increased risk of complications and mortality.
Medical experts have observed a rise in severe cases of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and shock syndrome compared to previous years. Dr. ABM Abdullah, a renowned medicine expert and personal physician to the Prime Minister, emphasizes the urgency of addressing this escalating crisis.
With August and September looming, experts are concerned that the situation may worsen further. To combat the threat of dengue, the two city corporations of Dhaka are taking proactive measures to control the Aedes mosquito population. Daily raids are being conducted, and fines are imposed when Aedes mosquito larvae are discovered.
However, experts stress that individual responsibility and awareness are crucial in effectively combating dengue. Without taking preventive measures at home and within communities, it will be a challenging task to overcome this public health crisis.
Authorities, healthcare professionals, and the public must unite in their efforts to contain the spread of dengue. Regular monitoring, early diagnosis, and prompt medical attention are vital in mitigating the impact of this worsening outbreak. Heightened awareness, community engagement, and rigorous mosquito control measures are essential in reducing the burden on hospitals and preventing further loss of life.
As the nation grapples with this alarming rise in dengue cases, concerted and coordinated actions are urgently needed to protect the health and well-being of the population.
