Densely populated Bangladesh is grappling with a rapid spread of dengue, prompting fears of a potential record number of deaths and infections for the second consecutive year from this mosquito-borne disease.
Official figures show that, as of now this year, at least 201 people have lost their lives to dengue, with more than half of the fatalities occurring in the capital, Dhaka. Additionally, over 37,000 individuals have been infected with the virus.
Last year, the country experienced a record high of 281 deaths attributed to dengue, as well as 62,423 reported cases, making it the worst outbreak since record-keeping began in 2000.
Health officials have reported the struggle of hospitals, particularly in Dhaka, to accommodate the high caseload of patients facing symptoms like high fever, joint pain, and vomiting.
Dengue, common in South Asia during the June-to-September monsoon season, spreads through the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which thrives in stagnant water. Unfortunately, there is no specific vaccine or drug to treat the disease. However, early detection and access to proper medical care can significantly reduce fatalities to fewer than 1% of sufferers.
In response to the outbreak, the government has initiated various measures to limit the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. These initiatives range from awareness campaigns to active efforts aimed at eliminating mosquito larvae during the current spell of rains, as stated by Health Minister Zahid Maleque.
