Experts fear post-Eid dengue surge

The country may see a potentially deadly dengue outbreak this year too as the number of cases and deaths from the mosquito-borne disease in the first five months of 2024 has surpassed that of the corresponding period of last year.

According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), 2,853 dengue cases and 36 deaths were reported across the country in January-May this year, up from 2022 cases and 13 deaths logged during the same period a year ago.

Experts fear an alarming escalation in dengue virus infections and death rates after the forthcoming Eid-ul-Azha vacation, as a large number of people will move to villages from cities, especially the capital Dhaka, during the holidays leaving their homes vacant.

They believe that Aedes mosquitoes, carriers of the dengue virus, may find the empty homes conducive to laying eggs, particularly with the ongoing monsoon season. Additionally, the movement of people infected with the dengue virus from one place to another will increase the risk of transmission and spread of the disease.

“The affected people will carry the virus from Dhaka and other big cities to other areas of the country during Eid, which may fuel the dengue cases after the holidays,” Prof Dr Nazrul Islam, former vice-chancellor of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), told the Daily Sun.

“This is alarming for our country given the number of dengue cases and deaths reported in the last five months even before the start of the rainy season,” added Nazrul, also a noted virologist of the country.

He said an extensive drive has to be conducted to control Aedes mosquito, the vector of dengue. “Unfortunately, it seems the authorities are not paying sincere attention to this.”

Dr Sheikh Daud Adnan, director (Disease Control) of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), advised, “If anyone suffers from dengue symptoms like fever, they should get tested first and avoid traveling during the holidays. At the same time, people must ensure that no stagnant water remains inside their homes after leaving.”

Experts also noted that the Aedes mosquito gets the chance to lay eggs and breed during the long vacation with continuous rainfall. They suggested that city dwellers remain vigilant, emphasising the importance of cleaning up after animal sacrifices and ensuring there is no stagnant water in homes and offices.

Speaking to Daily Sun, Shyamol Kumer Das, deputy programme manager (malaria and Aedes transmitted disease) of the DGHS, said people can access dengue testing and treatment services in all public hospitals, including upazila health complexes, across the country, even during the holidays.

Dr Sheikh Daud Adnan, director (Disease Control) of the DGHS, added that they have taken all-out preparations to ensure better treatment for dengue patients across the country. “Dengue units will be opened at hospitals, and a smooth supply of dengue test kits and other logistics like IV saline will be ensured,” he said.

According to DGHS data, 34 dengue cases and no deaths were reported nationwide in 24 hours until 8am on Sunday.

Health Minister Dr Samanta Lal Sen on Sunday said the government has taken all-out preparation to prevent dengue and ensure proper health services for the disease.

“We have asked all relevant organisations to remain alert for taking prompt actions to deal any possible outbreak of the disease,” he told a press conference at his ministry.