Bangladesh records persistently increased number of dengue deaths in recent years: Dissecting the shortcomings and means to resolve

Abstract

Dengue, a life-threatening disease caused by the mosquito-borne dengue virus (DENV), has become a severe problem in recent years in Bangladesh, a South Asian country. In this study, we have critically analyzed the factors contributing to the escalation of the dengue burden in recent years in Bangladesh and discussed the strategies for effective control. An increased number of dengue-related deaths has been recorded in Bangladesh since 2021. The year 2023 has witnessed a record high dengue-related deaths in Bangladesh, with cumulative deaths for the year surpassing all totals of the previous 23 years (2000–2022: total 853 deaths vs 2023: 1,705 deaths). Comparing the epidemiological data of major dengue-endemic countries over the last five years, Bangladesh recorded higher dengue fatality rates consecutively for three years. Besides the environmental and viral-host factors, which are also applicable to many other dengue-endemic countries, there is concern about the failures and mismanagement of authorities to manage dengue patients properly. By implementing multi-pronged proactive approaches that can ensure proper prevention programs and appropriate patient management, Bangladesh or similar other countries can significantly reduce the current dengue burden and the associated deaths.