As dengue infections and fatalities continue to rise across Bangladesh, the government has intensified its nationwide prevention and treatment campaign, rolling out a series of measures aimed at containing the spread of the mosquito-borne disease and strengthening healthcare preparedness.
Authorities have been working on dengue prevention efforts since March, with special cleanliness drives being conducted every Saturday to eliminate potential mosquito breeding grounds. Mobile courts have also been deployed to inspect homes, institutions and public areas for the presence of Aedes mosquito larvae, the primary carrier of dengue.
To enhance treatment capacity, dengue corners have been established at upazila-level hospitals across the country, while a dedicated field hospital has been kept ready at the Dhaka Medical College Hospital premises to accommodate a potential surge in patients.
The government has also focused on improving clinical care. Around 300 doctors nationwide have received specialized training in dengue treatment, and public hospitals have been instructed to provide dengue tests free of charge. In addition, private hospitals have been asked to reserve 10 percent of their beds for free treatment of dengue patients.
Diagnostic centres have also been directed to offer an 80 percent discount on dengue and related medical tests, easing the financial burden on patients seeking diagnosis and treatment.
Health authorities have updated the national dengue treatment guidelines with support from the Bangladesh Society of Medicine, ensuring that healthcare providers have access to the latest clinical protocols for managing dengue cases.
The awareness campaign is being expanded through the participation of volunteers from the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, Bangladesh Scouts, Bangladesh National Cadet Corps (BNCC), Girl Guides, the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, and students from schools and colleges across the country.
In response to the increasing number of hospital admissions and dengue-related deaths, State Minister Dr M A Muhit recently held a virtual meeting with civil surgeons across Bangladesh, directing them to strengthen hospital preparedness and ensure adequate medical support for patients.
The minister also urged citizens to maintain cleanliness in their homes, workplaces and surrounding areas, emphasizing that dengue prevention requires a collective national effort.
Hospitals have been instructed to prioritize dengue patients and increase the availability of dengue-designated beds wherever possible. Health facilities have also been asked to provide mosquito nets for dengue patients and those in adjacent wards to reduce the risk of further transmission.
With the monsoon season creating favorable conditions for mosquito breeding, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant as Bangladesh ramps up its fight against one of its most pressing public health challenges.
+ There are no comments
Add yours