Dengue a persistent public health concern

FE Team | Published: October 12, 2024 20:29:10

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease, has become a serious public health concern in Bangladesh. Transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the disease has seen a sharp rise in cases, particularly during the monsoon season. Once considered a seasonal issue, dengue is now prevalent year-round, highlighting the urgent need for effective control measures.
Dengue was first identified in Bangladesh in 2000, and since then, the country has faced almost yearly outbreaks. The situation worsened in 2019, when more than 100,000 cases and over 150 deaths were reported, marking the worst outbreak in the country's history.
Several factors have contributed to this rise. Rapid urbanisation, poor waste management, and inadequate sanitation create ideal breeding conditions for Aedes mosquitoes, which lay eggs in stagnant water found in items like flowerpots, tires, and open containers. High population density in urban areas, particularly Dhaka, has further facilitated the spread of the virus.
Dengue fever typically causes flu-like symptoms, including high fever, headaches, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding. Most people recover within two weeks. However, severe cases can lead to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), both of which can be fatal without timely medical intervention. The rise in severe cases has overwhelmed Bangladesh's healthcare system, especially during peak outbreaks.
Bangladesh's tropical climate, characterised by heavy monsoon rains from June to September, provides ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Climate change has further extended the dengue season, with cases now being reported throughout the year. Unplanned urbanisation, inadequate drainage, and poor waste disposal in cities like Dhaka have exacerbated the problem, leading to more breeding sites for mosquitoes.
The government has undertaken several measures to combat dengue, including efforts to eliminate breeding sites by encouraging communities to clear stagnant water and clean up potential mosquito habitats. Insecticide spraying, particularly through fogging operations, helps reduce adult mosquito populations, especially during outbreak periods. Public awareness campaigns have also been launched to promote the use of mosquito nets, protective clothing, and early medical treatment.
Despite these efforts, controlling dengue remains challenging due to the resilience of the Aedes mosquito and the need for ongoing community involvement.
Dengue fever continues to pose a growing health threat in Bangladesh, driven by urbanisation, climate change, and limited healthcare resources. To effectively control the disease, the country must prioritise long-term strategies, including improving urban infrastructure, enhancing public health awareness, and strengthening healthcare systems. Without sustained action, Bangladesh will struggle to manage this persistent health crisis.
Mostofa Shariar Tamim
Dhaka
tamimmostofa31@gmail.com