The dengue outbreak continues to worsen, with both infections and fatalities surging. The country has recorded its highest single-day death toll of the year from dengue, as 11 patients succumbed to the mosquito-borne disease in the last 24 hours.
During the same period, 1,079 new dengue patients were admitted to hospitals nationwide. This brings the total number of dengue-related deaths in 2024 to 459, with 86,791 cases reported so far this year. The information was provided by the Health Emergency Operation Center and Control Room of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Sunday (November 24).
Among the 11 deaths reported in the past 24 hours: 5 occurred in Dhaka North City Corporation area, 4 in Dhaka South City Corporation and 2 in Khulna Division.
New hospital admissions by region include: 272in Dhaka Division (outside City Corporations), 194 in Dhaka North City, 121in Dhaka South City, 143 in Khulna Division, 97 in Barishal Division, 113 in Chattogram Division, 58 in both Rajshahi and Rangpur Divisions, 35 in Mymensingh Division, and 9 in Sylhet Division.
Of the total hospitalisations this year, 63.20% are men and 36.80% are women.
Among the deceased, 51.10% are women and 48.90% are men.
Dengue outbreaks in Bangladesh typically peak during the rainy season. However, the situation has worsened significantly since June 2023, with this year witnessing unprecedented numbers.
2023: The country reported 321,179 dengue cases, with 1,705 deaths, marking the highest annual toll in history.
2022: 62,382 cases and 281 deaths were reported.
2019: A severe outbreak saw 111,354 infections and approximately 300 deaths, including healthcare workers.
2021: During the pandemic, cases were lower at 28,429, with 105 deaths.
Experts attribute the surge in dengue cases to environmental factors and inadequate control of Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit the virus. The DGHS continues to emphasize preventive measures and community awareness to combat the outbreak.
As the season progresses, the country remains vigilant, with efforts focused on reducing the spread and minimising fatalities in the coming weeks.