Bangladesh is currently dealing with a severe dengue fever outbreak, with recent statistics highlighting a critical surge in cases and fatalities. According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), the latest figures show that dengue has claimed five more people in the past 24 hours only. This terrible statistic brings the total number of deaths for the month to 30, marking the highest monthly death toll of 2024. This surpasses last month’s record of 27 deaths, stressing the increasing severity of the crisis.
DGHS’s statement on Tuesday reveals a remarkable rise in hospital admissions due to dengue. Over the past day, 872 people have been hospitalised, with the highest number of cases reported in the Chattogram division (224 admissions), Dhaka North City Corporation (186 admissions), and Dhaka South City Corporation (167 admissions). This influx places considerable pressure on healthcare facilities, struggling to cope with the number of patients and the demand for resources.
As of now, a total of 20,213 people have been hospitalised this year due to dengue, with 113 reported deaths. The data indicates that 54.9 percent of the deceased were women, while 45.1 percent were men. Among the hospitalised patients, 62.2 percent are men and 37.8 percent are women. Thankfully, 17,897 people have recovered and have been discharged, with 658 patients released in the past 24 hours.
Dengue fever, transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, has been a recurring issue in Bangladesh since its outbreak in 2000. From 2000 to 2022, the country recorded 244,246 cases of dengue fever and 853 deaths.
The current dengue fever crisis in Bangladesh
represents a significant public health challenge.
The rising incidents and fatalities demand
immediate and comprehensive steps.
The previous year set a record with 321,179 cases and 1,705 deaths, showing the severe impact the disease may have on the nation’s healthcare system.
The current outbreak highlights the urgent need for effective preventive measures.
Authorities concerned and local governments must strengthen efforts to control mosquito populations and eliminate breeding sites. Public awareness campaigns should be bolstered to notify communities of preventive practices such as removing stagnant water and using mosquito repellents.
Moreover, there is a critical need to strengthen healthcare infrastructure to manage the rising number of patients. Ensuring that hospitals are adequately equipped and staffed is essential to provide timely and effective care. The government and other relevant health agencies must prioritise these efforts to alleviate the outbreak's impact.
The current dengue fever crisis in Bangladesh represents a significant public health challenge. The rising incidents and fatalities demand immediate and comprehensive steps.
Bangladesh may better manage the ongoing outbreak and reduce the burden of dengue fever on its population by implementing effective prevention measures, improving healthcare facilities and enhancing public learning.
