Why so much neglect?

In recent years, dengue has struck various cities in the country with increasing severity. As time passes, the outbreak of dengue is becoming more intense and uncontrollable. Despite claims from the two city corporations of Dhaka and other city corporations across the country that they are making maximum efforts, the reason for the unabated surge of dengue remains to be thoroughly examined.

Experts suggest that the nature of dengue in the country has changed, making it more dangerous on one hand and increasing its risk nationwide, extending beyond urban areas. They point out that the current perilous state of dengue, even before the onset of the monsoon, indicates that dengue is no longer linked to rainy seasons or showers. This is because Aedes mosquito larvae are now found in construction sites, WASA meter boxes, and various other places. Consequently, dengue is no longer a seasonal issue limited to the monsoon but a year-round threat, not just confined to Dhaka but posing a risk to the entire country.

The daily patient list provided by the Health Directorate does not accurately reflect the true state of dengue. The actual scenario is more alarming. Intermittent rains over the past few days have exacerbated the concern. Public health experts fear that the situation will worsen once the full monsoon season begins.

If the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes, the sole source of dengue, can be controlled, dengue can be easily eradicated. Prevention is better than cure. Despite various initiatives, expert recommendations, and decisions taken at different times, little progress has been made. It is now essential to analyze why these plans and recommendations from domestic and international experts were not implemented.

Doctors report that the symptoms of dengue have changed this time. Many patients test negative for dengue but exhibit its symptoms. Patients are deteriorating suddenly. Children’s brains, hearts, and kidneys are malfunctioning. Due to late hospital admissions, there is less time to act, and multiple organs fail, leading to death. According to health experts, the actual number of infected individuals is four times higher than those hospitalized.

Instead of debating whether the health department or the city corporation is responsible for the ongoing dengue outbreak in the country, it is crucial to take effective and sustainable measures to control dengue. Those responsible for the continuous increase in dengue cases and those whose failures have led to this situation must be held accountable. At the same time, urban residents must remain vigilant and aware. Therefore, a combined effort by the city corporations and the citizens is essential to solving the dengue problem.