Staff Reporter :
The dengue outbreak in the country has taken a grave turn as seven people succumbed to the Aedes mosquito-borne disease in the past 24 hours, marking the highest single-day death toll this year.
Additionally, 860 new patients were admitted to hospitals across the country during the same period, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reported.
Of the newly admitted patients, 387 were hospitalised in Dhaka, the city hardest hit by the dengue epidemic.
Other regions are also grappling with a growing number of cases: 98 patients in Dhaka Division, 32 in Mymensingh Division, 164 in Chattogram Division, 53 in Khulna Division, 2 in Rajshahi Division, 17 in Rangpur Division, 6 in Sylhet Division, and 101 in Barishal Division.
With these new figures, the total number of people hospitalised for dengue in 2024 has reached 28,565, with a death toll of 150.
The DGHS has been tracking dengue-related hospitalisations and fatalities since 2000. Last year, Bangladesh saw its worst dengue outbreak on record, with 321,179 hospitalisations and 1,705 deaths.
The current rise in cases is raising concerns that 2024 could see another severe outbreak unless preventive measures are intensified.
Health experts are sounding the alarm over the continued surge in dengue cases, particularly as the Aedes mosquito population thrives in the warm and humid conditions.
The recent rains have exacerbated the situation, creating ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Despite efforts to control the outbreak, including fumigation drives and awareness campaigns, the dengue crisis remains a critical public health challenge.
Hospitals in Dhaka and other divisions are under increasing pressure as the number of dengue patients rises. Authorities are urging the public to take precautions, such as using mosquito nets, eliminating standing water, and promptly seeking medical attention if dengue symptoms appear.
As the number of hospitalisations climbs, the government is focusing on curbing the spread of the virus through mosquito control efforts and ensuring hospitals are equipped to handle the influx of patients.
However, the escalating figures indicate the need for more aggressive action to contain the outbreak and prevent further loss of life.
The public is also being encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities in dengue prevention efforts as the country battles the ongoing epidemic.