TLDR:
Dengue outbreak claims over 400 lives
Heavy rains worsen mosquito breeding
Pakistan offers aid to Bangladesh
DHAKA (The Thursday Times) — Bangladesh is in the grip of its deadliest dengue outbreak, with more than 400 deaths reported this year as hospitals struggle to cope with the influx of patients. Rising temperatures, prolonged monsoon rains, and dense urban populations have accelerated mosquito breeding, allowing the dengue virus to spread widely across the nation, especially in Dhaka. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reported nearly 1,400 new hospitalisations on Sunday alone, bringing the total to nearly 80,000 cases since January.
Entomologists link the surge to unusual weather patterns, with heavy rains in October creating ideal breeding grounds for the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the primary carrier of dengue. Professor Kabirul Bashar of Jahangirnagar University has called for year-round mosquito control measures to prevent further outbreaks. Meanwhile, health officials emphasise that early diagnosis and mosquito control are critical to managing the crisis, as hospitals remain overwhelmed by patients in critical condition.
Climate change impact on vector-borne diseases
Experts say climate change has extended the monsoon season, resulting in prolonged wet conditions that facilitate mosquito breeding. Previously, dengue cases in Bangladesh were largely confined to the June-September period, but this year has seen a continuation of cases well into November. Dr ABM Abdullah, a prominent physician, highlights the importance of early diagnosis and prevention, stating that prompt treatment can significantly reduce fatalities. Health officials are pushing for stronger public health initiatives, encouraging residents to use mosquito nets, repellents, and clear stagnant water to curb the spread.
Bangladesh’s healthcare system under strain
The unprecedented volume of dengue cases is placing severe pressure on Bangladesh’s healthcare infrastructure. Hospitals, particularly in Dhaka, are stretched thin, with some patients travelling long distances from rural areas for treatment. Delayed care has been a major factor in the high death toll, as rural patients often only seek medical help after symptoms worsen. Health officials are working to address this issue by providing resources for early diagnosis and treatment, especially in regions outside Dhaka.
Pakistan pledges aid
As the crisis escalates, Pakistan has stepped forward to offer assistance. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his solidarity with Bangladesh, pledging support in controlling the outbreak. Bangladesh has struggled with a record number of dengue cases in recent years, with 2023 witnessing over 1,700 deaths. Public health experts advocate for improved vector surveillance and cross-border cooperation to combat dengue, as climate shifts increase the risk of vector-borne diseases throughout South Asia.
Expressing deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in Bangladesh’s ongoing dengue outbreak, Pakistan’s prime minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt solidarity to the people of Bangladesh during this challenging period. He emphasised Pakistan’s readiness to provide support in any way possible, standing alongside their Bangladeshi “brothers and sisters” in facing the crisis.
Deeply saddened by the loss of precious lives due to the dengue outbreak in Bangladesh. Pakistan stands in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Bangladesh at this difficult time and we stand ready to assist in whatever way we can.@ChiefAdviserGoB
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) November 18, 2024