Mushtaq Ahmed Shawon :
The dengue outbreak in Narayanganj is worsening, with cases not only rising in urban areas but also extending to the suburbs and rural areas. Every 24 hours, more than 100 dengue patients arrive at the two main public hospitals in Narayanganj-Victoria Hospital and the 300-bed General Hospital. Since early July, dengue cases have been on the rise. Although no dengue-related deaths have occurred in local hospitals, two students and a doctor from Narayanganj passed away in the last month due to dengue while receiving treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and a private hospital, sparking concern across the district.
As of November 1, 2024, Narayanganj has reported 1,313 dengue cases this year. In October alone, around 450 patients were admitted to hospitals in the city, compared to 180 in September. Currently, about 80-90 people are being tested daily, with 60-70 testing positive for dengue. Due to bed shortages, many patients are turned away from the 300-bed and Victoria hospitals and are forced to seek treatment at home.
The two public hospitals have been struggling with long wait times for dengue tests, and some patients report being exploited by intermediaries who demand extra money to expedite test results. Patients complain that they’re often told to wait until 2:30 PM for their results, only to be asked to come back the next day. Some hospital staff allegedly offer to “fast-track” the results for a fee.
In response, many residents are calling for the Narayanganj City Corporation to intensify anti-mosquito measures, including spraying in drains, ditches, and rooftop gardens.
Dr. Md. Abul Bashar, superintendent of the 300-bed hospital, warned, “Dengue cases are increasing this year, so everyone must be vigilant. If you have fever or body pain, consult a doctor. Don’t take medication without testing for dengue first.”
Dr. Zahidul Islam, Resident Medical Officer of Narayanganj General (Victoria) Hospital, added, “The dengue situation is alarming. More patients are coming for treatment than we can accommodate. As soon as one patient is discharged, another is admitted, while some receive treatment at home.” According to Mohammad Zakir Hossain, Chief Executive of Narayanganj City Corporation, “We’ve identified 39 areas as dengue hotspots. In addition to daily mosquito control work, we’ll focus on clearing breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, cleaning dirty areas, and eliminating mosquito habitats.”
Narayanganj District Civil Surgeon Dr. A.F.M. Mushiur Rahman stated, “The number of dengue patients continues to rise, but the health department is fully prepared to tackle the situation. This year, 1,306 people have been infected in Narayanganj, with 1,087 discharged after recovery. Over 100 are currently under treatment in hospitals.”
He further stressed that public awareness is key to reducing the dengue spread.