Dengue has become a life-threatening disease in Bangladesh in recent years, claiming an increasing number of lives since 2021. The year 2023 saw a record high number of dengue-related deaths, surpassing all combined totals of the previous 23 years. According to data, from 2000 to 2022, 853 deaths were recorded, whereas 2023 alone reported 1,705 deaths. Alarmingly, Bangladesh had the second-highest number of dengue cases globally that year. Compared to 2023, Bangladesh has witnessed fewer deaths due to dengue infection in 2024; however, the threat remains significant, with over 400 fatalities recorded as of November this year. It is, therefore, high time that the causes, symptoms, and precautions related to dengue are urgently addressed to safeguard public health.
Dengue is caused by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which carries the dengue virus known as "DENV." The mosquito can be identified by the white stripes on its body.
The virus spreads when an Aedes mosquito bites a person infected with dengue and subsequently transmits the virus to another individual.
The symptoms of dengue usually begin 4 to 10 days after infection and may last up to a week. Typical signs include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and rash.
In severe cases, dengue can damage blood vessels, reduce the platelet count in the bloodstream, and lead to shock, internal bleeding, organ failure, and even death. Warning signs such as severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, or bleeding from the nose, gums, or stools require immediate medical attention.
While there is no specific treatment for dengue, severe cases demand urgent medical intervention. Diagnostic tests, such as a Complete Blood Count (CBC), are essential for proper monitoring and care under a doctor's supervision.
Given the severity of dengue, preventative measures are crucial. Vaccines for dengue are available for individuals aged 6 to 60 who have already had a prior dengue infection. However, beyond vaccination, collective efforts to control mosquito populations are critical.
Shahriar Ahmed
Student
Bachelor in Business Administration
North South University
shahriar.ahmed03@northsouth.edu