HELEMUL ALAM

In a worrisome development, the deadly dengue fever has rapidly spread its grip across Bangladesh, reaching 57 districts of the country.

At least 11,116 dengue patients have so far been hospitalised till yesterday, of whom 3,217 are from outside Dhaka. Meanwhile, two dengue patients died and 661 were hospitalised in the 24 hours till this morning.

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reported a death toll of 64 dengue patients till yesterday.

As per the DGHS data, all districts, barring Sunamganj, Habiganj, Jhalakathi, Natore, Joypurhat, Chuadanga, and Gopalganj, have reported cases of dengue this year.

According to entomologist GM Saifur Rahman of National University, the absence of surveillance at the district level has been a critical oversight throughout the year, despite its crucial importance.

“The government should establish an effective surveillance system to identify dengue hotspots, enabling local government departments, community organisations, and educational institutions to carry out targeted interventions,” he said.

Saifur also highlighted the shared responsibility of both residents and city corporations in maintaining awareness, cleaning houses, and eliminating potential breeding sources to ensure effective source reduction.

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