Dengue cases, fatalities on the rise outside Dhaka

Dengue cases outside Dhaka are continuing to rise than those in the capital, as the country grapples with a record outbreak of the mosquito-borne disease.

According to the latest report from the DGHS, Bangladesh has seen 2,23,564 dengue cases and 1,086 fatalities so far this year. Among these cases, 88,194 were reported in Dhaka, while 1,35,370 (66.56 percent) outside Dhaka.

The top 10 districts with the highest infection rates are Dhaka (88,194 cases), Chattogram (10,757), Barishal (9,718), Manikganj (6,907), Patuakhali (5,946), Lakshmipur (4,974), Pirojpur (4,588), Faridpur (4,546), Chandpur (4,091), and Gazipur (4,082).

However, the number of deaths in Dhaka (685) is still higher than those outside the capital (401).

In the past seven days, from October 1 to October 7, there have been 17,416 hospitalisations and 46 deaths outside the capital due to dengue. In comparison, Dhaka city reported 4,360 hospitalisations and 44 fatalities during the same period.

In the last 24-hour till yesterday morning, the nation witnessed an additional 2,742 cases and 7 fatalities.

From October 1 to October 7, there have been 17,416 cases and 46 deaths outside the capital while Dhaka reported 4,360 cases and 44 fatalities.

Local Government Minister Tazul Islam recently said many buildings have been erected in rural regions, leading to the formation of stagnant water sources that serve as an ideal breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes.

"It is important to promote awareness among all and take measures to eliminate these breeding sites,"  he added.

Dr Saifur Rahman, entomologist at the National University, said urban sprawl has been a major contributing factor to the spread of dengue in districts surrounding the capital.

"Besides, a significant number of individuals commute to Dhaka for work on a daily basis, and upon their return, they may unknowingly carry the dengue virus with them," he added.

Public health expert Dr Mushtaq Hussain told The Daily Star, "No significant measures were taken to reduce infection or deaths. Besides, extended monsoon has also contributed to the menace."

"We hope that the infection and deaths will decrease within one and a half to two months after the rain stops."