The country is facing a severe growing health crisis as dengue cases continue to rise alarmingly.
An English newspaper on Saturday reported that the situation is deteriorating with over 27,000 hospitalisations and 143 deaths already recorded this year, especially as the country experiences persistent rains that provide ideal breeding conditions for Aedes mosquitoes, the primary carriers of the dengue virus.
This ongoing health catastrophe demands immediate action and heightened awareness from authorities and citizens.
Experts have repeatedly warned that the combination of intermittent rains and high humidity offers a perfect environment for the spread of Aedes mosquitoes.
These conditions not only facilitate their breeding but also increase their biting frequency. Disturbingly, a field-level survey has shown a high density of Aedes mosquitoes in key areas of the capital.
The Breteau Index (BI) – a key indicator used to predict outbreaks – has reached alarming levels, far exceeding the safe threshold of 20 in areas like Uttara, Gulshan-Banani, and Mirpur, further signalling an imminent spike in cases.
As the death toll continues to rise, every citizen must take personal responsibility in the fight against dengue.
Simple yet crucial steps such as using mosquito repellents, wearing full-sleeve clothing, and ensuring the removal of stagnant water from their surroundings can make a significant difference.
Additionally, large organisations, including housing societies, should actively employ preventive measures like Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) to eliminate mosquito larvae.
While the government has taken commendable steps by forming teams to oversee mosquito eradication efforts, a more comprehensive and long-term approach is needed.
The suggestion of creating a specialised vector management unit is particularly important.
This unit would coordinate research, monitoring, and management efforts across the city, ensuring a sustained fight against dengue and other vector-borne diseases.
The responsibility, however, does not solely lie with the government. Hospitals, where the presence of dengue-infected patients increases the risk of further transmission, must take extra precautions.
Furthermore, local communities must be engaged in awareness campaigns to foster social responsibility in eliminating mosquito breeding grounds.
We urge the citizens to realise the gravity of the situation and take every possible precaution to protect themselves and their families.
The time to take decisive, united action is now. We must not wait for the crisis to worsen.
