Climate change drives year-round dengue infections: Experts

Dengue, once a seasonal affliction in Bangladesh, has become a year-round menace, with experts blaming climate change for its unrelenting spread. 

The sharp rise in infections and deaths highlights a crisis that demands immediate and coordinated national action.

At a discussion organised by the Bangladesh Private Medical College Association (BPMCA) on Sunday (December 1) at the CIRDAP auditorium, BPMCA President MA Mubin Khan painted a grim picture of the country's ongoing battle with dengue.

“Dengue no longer respects winter or summer,” he said. "Climate change has altered mosquito breeding patterns, allowing dengue-carrying mosquitoes to thrive and spread throughout the year."

A growing crisis

The latest figures from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reveal that, as of November 29, 90,794 people have been infected with dengue this year, and 485 have died. While district cities remain relatively less affected, Dhaka and Chittagong face a dire situation.

What’s particularly alarming is the rising death rate linked to “expanded dengue syndrome,” a severe and often fatal manifestation of the disease. Traditionally, dengue outbreaks peak between May and September, coinciding with the monsoon season. However, the warming climate has disrupted this cycle, enabling mosquitoes to breed and spread even during the winter months.

Lessons from success stories

Highlighting effective strategies from other regions, Mubin Khan drew attention to Kolkata’s successful dengue control measures. The Kolkata Corporation has implemented year-round surveillance, ensuring no stagnant water accumulates in public or private spaces.

“They have workers in every ward – one dedicated to awareness campaigns and another to monitor waterlogging,” he explained. Kolkata also maintains a detailed record of hospital blood tests and virus detections, enabling swift action when dengue cases arise.

The path forward for Bangladesh

Mubin Khan emphasised the need for similar initiatives in Bangladesh, calling for a joint national effort involving both the government and private sectors.

“A scientific approach is crucial,” he said. “Controlling the vector mosquito is the most important step. Without addressing the root cause, piecemeal efforts will not suffice.”

The BPMCA has pledged its support to the government’s dengue response efforts. "Every year, when dengue cases surge, our association members work tirelessly to provide the best possible care to patients," said Mubin Khan.

Raising awareness and taking action

In addition to enhancing treatment capacity, the BPMCA has committed to raising awareness about dengue prevention. Simple yet critical actions, such as eliminating stagnant water, using mosquito nets, and ensuring proper waste disposal, can make a significant difference.

As climate change continues to exacerbate the spread of vector-borne diseases like dengue, a robust and sustainable approach is essential. The lessons from successful cities like Kolkata offer a roadmap, but the will to act must come swiftly to prevent further loss of life.