Gaps in efforts to stop spread of Aedes mosquitoes: Zahid Maleque
1 dead, 285 hospitalised in 24 hours
Health Minister Zahid Maleque today said there may be gaps in the city corporations' efforts to control the spread of Aedes mosquitos, resulting in deterioration of the dengue situation.
"We are working closely with the city corporations. Our research team is working with them, providing necessary information. We hope they will not keep any lapses in their respective responsibilities," he said while addressing as chief guest at an event in Dhaka marking World Malaria Day 2023.
The government, however, has undertaken all preparations to treat patients, he said.
In the 24 hours till 8:00am today, 285 people were admitted to the hospitals countrywide with dengue infection. In the meantime, one male dengue patient, 16, has died, according to the Director General of Health Services (DGHS).
Since January 1, the DGHS has reported 4,087 dengue cases in the country. Of those, 29 have died.
Highlighting the concerning upward trajectory, Zahid Maleque emphasised the need to address the emerging challenge of preventing the spread of dengue.
He also urged the city corporations to be sure through testing that the newly imported mosquito repellent is effective.
The minister, meanwhile, said that the number of malaria patients has decreased in the last few years.
"This year, a total of 1,425 people were infected with malaria and there was no death. It is because the spread of mosquito carrying malaria virus has declined."