Rain spurs fear of dengue surge

With the monsoon rains arriving early this year, the number of dengue cases is increasing rapidly, raising concerns about a potential outbreak in the coming months.

Experts have warned that if immediate preventive measures are not taken, the number of dengue patients may surpass last year's total of 1,01,214 cases, which resulted in 575 deaths.

According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), as of yesterday morning, the total number of dengue cases reported this year has reached 3,767, with 23 deaths. In April alone, there were 701 cases, and 1,195 cases were reported in the first 23 days of May -- indicating a clear upward trend.

Entomologist Prof Kabirul Bashar of Jahangirnagar University said the population of Aedes mosquitoes is increasing across the country and is likely to continue rising in the coming months.

"The dengue situation may become worse than last year if urgent action, particularly breeding source reduction activities, is not undertaken immediately," he said.

Bashar emphasised the critical role of the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives (LGRD) in issuing immediate directives to combat the spread of Aedes mosquitoes.

"Breeding source management and larvae control must be top priorities. Authorities and residents alike must ensure there is no stagnant water in containers, construction sites, or other locations," he added.

Entomologist GM Saifur Rahman echoed these concerns, stating that the current rainfall pattern is conducive to Aedes breeding.

"Like last year, there is no active national control programme in place. Without immediate intervention, the disease will likely spread to new areas," he warned.

Rahman also highlighted the need for making dengue a reportable disease in Bangladesh, which would ensure proper data collection and a more effective response.

"A large number of cases remain undocumented due to the lack of mandatory reporting. Surveillance and data collection must be prioritised so targeted control measures can be implemented," he said.

"Early detection of Aedes hotspots is vital. Immediate action after rainfall to eliminate breeding sites and larvae is key to preventing a major outbreak."

Common breeding sites for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes include plastic drums, mud pots, tubs, discarded tyres, under-construction buildings, bird water containers, stagnant water areas, cattle troughs, leaking pipes, and flooded floors in construction sites.

HM Nazmul Ahsan, associate professor at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College and Hospital, said they are currently seeing a low number of dengue patients, but the number is likely to rise as the rainy season continues.

"We are currently managing dengue patients in general wards, but dedicated wards will be set up if the patient load increases," he said.

He advised that anyone diagnosed with fever should immediately consult a doctor and get a dengue test, following prescribed treatments. Keeping well-hydrated is crucial, with coconut water, saline, fruit juices, and homemade drinks recommended to maintain hydration and provide essential vitamins and minerals to aid recovery.