UNB, Dhaka

The government launched a three-month nationwide campaign yesterday to raise public awareness about dengue prevention, eliminate Aedes mosquito breeding sites, and ensure a clean environment.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain inaugurated the campaign at Rabindra Sarobar in the capital.

“The government is launching a nationwide awareness campaign, including announcements through loudspeakers, to prevent dengue. We want to convey the message to everyone that maintaining cleanliness and preventing water from accumulating are the most effective ways to combat dengue,” he said at the inauguration.

DSCC Administrator M Abdus Salam said citizens have the most important role in preventing the spread of dengue. A DSCC survey identified 28 of the corporation’s 75 wards as high-risk areas, he said.

A week-long special “crash programme” will begin in those wards from today to intensify anti-dengue measures.

Abdus Salam also said the prime minister had warned authorities about potential dengue risks two months ago, prompting the city corporation and health authorities to take advance preparations.