In recent updates from Bangladesh, the dengue fever crisis continues to escalate with reports of two additional fatalities, bringing the total death toll to 366 this year. According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), the nation recorded 705 new dengue cases in the last 24 hours, contributing to an alarming 90,969 infections for the year. The fatalities reported were from the Dhaka and Sylhet divisions, highlighting the widespread prevalence of the disease. Presently, 2,345 patients are receiving treatment in various healthcare facilities throughout Bangladesh.
A trend analysis indicates that demographic data of the victims shows that 52.1% of the dengue-related deaths were male, while 48.1% were female. The figures indicate a marked increase in mortality rates compared to previous years, where 575 deaths were recorded in 2024 and 1,705 in 2023.
In response to the surge in dengue cases, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued an advisory calling for immediate medical attention during instances of fever, and recommends undergoing dengue detection tests at local health-service centers as per medical advice. The advisory stresses that early detection can help mitigate serious complications associated with the disease.
Public health officials have urged residents to take preventative measures by eliminating stagnant water in and around their properties, which serve as breeding grounds for the Aedes mosquitoes transmitting the virus. The ministry has also recommended the use of mosquito nets, whether during daytime or nighttime, due to the daytime biting habits of the Aedes mosquito.
Dengue is a viral illness spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes and is most commonly found in tropical and sub-tropical climates, predominantly in urban and semi-urban areas. While there is no specific treatment for dengue, the DGHS emphasizes that early detection and access to quality medical care can significantly lower the chances of death associated with severe cases of the infection. The ongoing situation in Bangladesh calls for heightened public awareness and enhanced preventive actions to combat this mosquito-borne disease effectively.