Published :
Updated :
For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
October has witnessed the highest number of dengue-related deaths and infections this year, amid a worsening situation in and outside of the city.
The country reported no new deaths on Friday, and the total death toll remained at 278 this year. This included a monthly high of 80 deaths in October alone, according to the Director General of Health Services (DGHS).
The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has recorded the highest fatalities, accounting for 134 deaths out of the total number.
October also saw 22,520 hospitalisations, a sharp rise from 15,866 in September.
The country also reported 506 new infections on Friday, bringing the total number of dengue cases to 69,862 this year.
Talking to the FE, experts have warned that this dengue wave is likely to persist through the coming months, extending into January, though they anticipate the intensity may decrease.
However, more rains this week could further exacerbate the situation. Experts say that rainfall helps the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which spreads the dengue virus, lay eggs for a longer period than usual, fuelling further outbreaks.
According to Prof. Kabirul Bashar, an entomologist at Jahangirnagar University, the warm temperatures in Bangladesh -- compared to other countries -- mean that mosquitoes can now bite after daytime if there is enough light in the households, increasing the risk of transmission.
He also said the DSCC sees the highest deaths as the major hospitals are located in this area.
nsrafsanju@gmail.com