Dhaka: Bangladesh is facing a renewed dengue crisis, with September recording the country’s highest monthly death toll from the mosquito-borne disease so far this year.

At least 148 people died from dengue during September, according to health authorities, taking the reported number of dengue deaths in Bangladesh during the year to around 245. Thousands of additional infections have also been recorded as the outbreak intensifies.

The sharp increase has raised concerns among health officials that dengue transmission could remain high as the country enters another period of elevated mosquito activity.

September Sees Sharp Increase

The number of dengue-related deaths rose considerably during September compared with earlier months. Health authorities have warned that October could also remain difficult because favourable conditions for mosquito breeding continue in several parts of the country.

Dengue is transmitted primarily through infected Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes can breed in relatively small amounts of stagnant water around homes, workplaces and other populated areas.

Hospitals Under Pressure

The increase in infections has placed additional pressure on hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Patients with dengue can develop high fever, severe body pain, dehydration and other symptoms. In serious cases, the disease can lead to bleeding, shock and organ complications.

Health facilities have been preparing additional capacity to manage patients as the number of infections increases.

Urban Areas Remain Vulnerable

Densely populated urban areas are particularly vulnerable to dengue transmission because standing water can accumulate in construction sites, discarded containers, drains and household surroundings.

Regular removal of stagnant water is therefore an important part of mosquito-control efforts.

Public-health authorities have continued to urge residents to use mosquito protection and seek medical attention when warning signs appear.

Weather Conditions Affect Transmission

Dengue outbreaks are strongly influenced by environmental conditions.

Rainfall can create additional breeding locations for mosquitoes, while warm temperatures can support mosquito development and virus transmission.

Bangladesh’s seasonal weather patterns therefore play an important role in determining the intensity of dengue transmission.

Prevention Remains Important

Health authorities are encouraging communities to remove containers and other objects that can collect rainwater.

People are also being advised to use mosquito nets, repellents and protective clothing where appropriate, particularly in areas experiencing increased dengue activity.

Early medical assessment is important for people who develop persistent high fever or other symptoms associated with dengue.

Warning Signs Need Attention

Severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding, extreme weakness, difficulty breathing and unusual drowsiness can be warning signs requiring urgent medical evaluation.

Dengue treatment generally focuses on supportive care, hydration and monitoring for complications because there is no routine antiviral treatment that eliminates the dengue virus.

Public-Health Challenge

The latest surge highlights the continuing challenge Bangladesh faces in controlling mosquito-borne diseases.

Health authorities must combine disease surveillance, mosquito-control measures, public awareness and hospital preparedness to reduce the impact of the outbreak.

With September producing a substantial increase in deaths, health officials are closely monitoring infection trends as the country moves into October.

The coming weeks will be important in determining whether dengue transmission begins to decline or continues at elevated levels.