Dengue in Bangladesh

Abstract

Dengue is one of the prominent public health concerns in tropical and subtropical regions globally. The dengue epidemic was first observed in the 1780 s, mainly in Asia, Africa, and America; however, this virus was found in Bangladesh in 1964. Rapid and unplanned urbanization, global warming, and prolonged rainy season promoted dengue outbreaks in recent years in Bangladesh. Additionally, household hazards contribute to producing an increased number of Aedes mosquitoes. The presence of four sub-types of dengue viruses intensified the dengue outbreak and fatalities, especially since the re-emergence of dengue virus 4 caused more death in 2022. Dhaka city and Rohingya refugee camps witnessed the highest prevalence of dengue patients and fatalities. Furthermore, the cocreation of the dengue outbreak and COVID-19 pandemic-related hazards overwhelmed the health system in Bangladesh. The measures previously taken by the Bangladesh government and City Corporation authorities proved inadequate to face the surge of dengue patients during the pandemic. The government of Bangladesh should stress the proper management of a high volume of dengue patients and raise public concern to fight mosquito proliferation in hot spots such as Dhaka city and Rohingya refugee camps.