Combating Dengue: More proactive measures needed

As the number of dengue patients continues to rise rapidly, and fatalities soar, authorities are urging each other for more proactive measures.

Health Minister Zahid Maleque, addressing a programme yesterday, called upon all relevant authorities, including city corporations, to intensify efforts in eliminating the breeding grounds of Aedes mosquitoes.

"I would urge those responsible for mosquito control to enhance their activities as many [people] are dying; many are being infected. We have kept providing healthcare service; [but] hospitals are reaching capacity."

DSCC Mayor Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, in another event, voiced his concerns and asked the DGHS to focus more on reducing mortality rates.

 "The quality and scope of medical services should be increased more. The pre-treatment facilities should be ensured so that a patient does not go into critical condition. Only then the death rates will be reduced."

Meanwhile, the mounting number of dengue cases and fatalities remains a grave concern. According to DGHS, one dengue patient died while 584 were hospitalised in the last 24 hours till yesterday morning.

On Tuesday, the country witnessed the highest number of dengue deaths this year, with five fatalities. The total number of deaths in dengue rose to 62 while number of cases stands at 10,482. Experts continue to urge the authorities to conduct drives identifying hot spots of Aedes mosquitoes as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, the DSCC mayor urged people to assist them in combating dengue. "If you give us information, our mosquito control workers will reach there within 15 minutes."

Taposh acknowledged that dengue had emerged earlier than expected this year, even during scorching heat, and emphasised the need to expand dengue control activities.

Saying that dengue cannot be eradicated entirely, the mayor said, "If you compare the data and statistics with developed countries, then you will see that we are in a good position."