Public Awareness Is Essential to Prevent Dengue

Dear Sir,

Dengue has become a major public health concern in Bangladesh, with the risk of infection rising during and after the monsoon as Aedes mosquitoes breed rapidly. Unplanned urbanisation, poor sanitation, stagnant water and low public awareness have worsened the situation. According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), as of October 25, 2026, Bangladesh had recorded 123,948 hospitalisations and 384 dengue-related deaths.
 
Alongside government initiatives, public participation is essential to prevent the spread of dengue. People should regularly remove stagnant water from rooftops, flowerpots, discarded tyres, coconut shells, containers and construction sites, and inspect their surroundings weekly. Mosquito nets, long-sleeved clothing and approved repellents can reduce exposure. Anyone with fever, headache or body aches should seek medical advice. Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding or breathing difficulties require immediate medical attention.

Local administrations, city corporations, educational institutions, the media and social organisations must work together through regular cleaning drives and awareness campaigns. Dengue prevention is everyone’s responsibility.

Aniruddha Sutradhar
Student, Narsingdi Government College