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TL;DR
- Bangladesh reports 6 more dengue deaths and 1,312 new hospitalizations in 24 hours, bringing the total fatalities to 286 and cases to 59,420 in 2024
- 4,016 patients currently receiving treatment in hospitals across the country, with a concentration of cases in Dhaka North and South City Corporations
- 2023 was the deadliest year on record for dengue in Bangladesh, with 1,705 deaths and 321,179 cases reported
- Authorities urge preventive measures, prompt medical attention, and are working to enhance surveillance and strengthen healthcare capacity to manage the outbreak
Bangladesh continues to grapple with a severe dengue outbreak as health authorities reported six more deaths and 1,312 new hospitalizations in the 24 hours leading up to Tuesday morning, October 29, 2024. This latest update from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) brings the total dengue-related fatalities in the country to 286 for the year 2024.
The surge in cases has put significant pressure on the healthcare system, with 4,016 patients currently receiving treatment in hospitals across Bangladesh. Of the newly hospitalized patients, 322 were admitted to hospitals under the Dhaka North City Corporation, while 181 were admitted in the Dhaka South City Corporation area, indicating a concentration of cases in the capital city.
Since January 1, 2024, Bangladesh has recorded a staggering 59,420 dengue cases, highlighting the scale of this year’s outbreak. The situation appears to be worsening as the year progresses, with October proving to be particularly challenging.
This year’s outbreak follows a record-breaking dengue season in 2023, which saw 1,705 deaths and 321,179 cases, making it the deadliest year on record for dengue in Bangladesh. The high number of cases and fatalities underscores the ongoing struggle to control the mosquito-borne disease effectively.
Health experts attribute the surge to various factors, including inadequate mosquito control measures, late hospitalization of patients, and the prevalence of multiple dengue serotypes. The Den-2 variant has been identified as particularly lethal this year, contributing to the rising death toll.
As the outbreak continues, public health officials are urging citizens to take preventive measures, such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites and seeking medical attention promptly if dengue symptoms appear. The government has also formed expert committees to develop strategies for controlling the outbreak and improving patient care.
With dengue cases expected to remain high through December, authorities are working to enhance surveillance, implement targeted interventions, and strengthen the healthcare system’s capacity to manage the influx of patients. The ongoing situation serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by vector-borne diseases and the need for sustained efforts in public health and disease prevention.
Source: TBS news