Prime Minister (PM) Tarique Rahman has urged citizens to take preventive measures against dengue and chikungunya, announcing that a nationwide weekly cleanliness campaign will be launched on March 14 to curb the spread of mosquito borne diseases.
In a special video message to the nation on Wednesday, the prime minister highlighted the growing public health threat posed by dengue and chikungunya, which have claimed lives across the country.
"According to experts, dengue and chikungunya infections occur due to the bite of the Aedes mosquito. So it is urgent to take all kinds of preventive measures in advance to protect us from dengue," he said.
While outbreaks typically peak during the monsoon season between June and October, the prime minister noted that public health experts now warn that the disease can strike at any time of the year.
Aedes mosquitoes breed in clean stagnant water, which often accumulates during the rainy season, he said. Citing entomologists and public health specialists, Tarique Rahman said the most effective way to control mosquito breeding is to keep drains, ponds and sewers clean and free of standing water.
He urged citizens to avoid allowing water to collect in flower pots, drums, buckets, discarded tyres, ponds or on rooftops. Water tanks should be covered properly, and homes and surrounding areas should be cleaned at least once a week, he added.
"Awareness and cleanliness are the most effective ways to prevent dengue," the prime minister emphasised.
To support these efforts, the government will launch a weekly cleanliness drive beginning March 14, ahead of the monsoon season. Local administrations have already been directed to roll out the initiative across the country, he said.
Tarique Rahman, who is also BNP chairman, called on public representatives at all levels, including members of parliament, to lead cleanliness activities in their homes and neighbourhoods every Saturday, encouraging community participation.
He expressed confidence that regular cleaning efforts would help protect the public from deadly diseases such as dengue and chikungunya in the coming months.
"The core principle of our government's national health policy is that prevention is better than cure. So do not allow dirty water to accumulate anywhere," he said.
"Keep your home and surroundings clean. Protect yourself from Aedes or chikungunya. Protect yourselves and protect others," he added.
