In response to the alarming rise in dengue cases, the interim government has finalised the draft of a comprehensive National Dengue Prevention and Control Strategy for the period of 2024-2030.
As dengue infections continue to surge, this strategic plan aims to curb the spread of the vector-borne disease across the country.
“The draft of National Dengue Prevention and Control Strategy (2024-2030) has been finalised, which is awaiting final approval,” said a progress report on the works of different ministries and divisions.
The report, released by the chief adviser’s press wing, marks the government’s three-month milestone and underscores the urgency of addressing dengue-related health challenges.
According to the latest statistics, Bangladesh reported a total of 72,393 dengue cases as of November 10, 2024, with 355 related deaths. These figures follow the unprecedented surge in 2023, which recorded 321,179 dengue cases and 1,705 deaths from January to December.
About the government’s measures taken to prevent dengue outbreak, the report said the government has allocated Taka one crore to conduct entomological survey on dengue virus and a committee has already been formed to this end.
Dengue corners have been set up at all medical colleges and
hospitals across the country, while necessary medicines and equipment were supplied to and dengue test facilities were established in the hospitals. DNCC hospital and Mugda Medical College and Hospital have been declared as the dengue dedicated ones.
As part of creating awareness on dengue infections, the Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) platform was established, the report said.
The supply of IV fluid (saline) has been ensured to treat dengue patients. At present, 4,21,800 litres of fluid have been stored. A total of 1,01,159 dengue test kits and 26,135 mosquito nets were distributed.
Directorate General of Health Services has developed a dengue tracker application.
Taka one crore has been allocated to the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Mohakhali to carry out regular survey in implementing the dengue prevention and control programme.
