Khulna Division Faces Rising Dengue Cases Amid Monsoon Season

Khulna, Bangladesh – Health officials in the Khulna division are reporting a significant increase in dengue fever cases, mirroring a nationwide surge linked to the ongoing monsoon season. As of October 26th, 2023, over 600 cases have been confirmed in the division, with the majority concentrated in Khulna city itself. While no fatalities have been reported in Khulna recently, concerns are mounting as the number of infections continues to climb daily.

The Civil Surgeon’s office in Khulna attributes the rise to the heavy rainfall and subsequent stagnant water, creating ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, the primary vector for the dengue virus. Areas with poor drainage systems and inadequate waste management are particularly vulnerable, officials say. Khulna’s densely populated neighborhoods are experiencing the most acute impact, with reports of infections coming from areas like Daulatpur, Sonadanga, and Khalishpur.

Local hospitals are reportedly becoming increasingly burdened with dengue patients, although authorities maintain that they have sufficient beds and medical supplies to cope with the current situation. Khulna Medical College Hospital has designated a separate ward specifically for dengue patients, and several private hospitals are also providing treatment. However, doctors are urging residents to seek medical attention promptly if they experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and rash.

The city corporation is undertaking various measures to control the mosquito population, including regular fogging drives, larviciding activities, and public awareness campaigns. Teams are being deployed to eliminate stagnant water sources and encourage residents to take preventative measures, such as using mosquito nets, wearing long sleeves, and emptying containers that collect rainwater. However, the effectiveness of these efforts is hampered by the continuous rainfall and the challenges of reaching all affected areas.

Beyond Khulna city, districts like Bagerhat, Satkhira, and Narail within the Khulna division are also witnessing an increase in dengue cases, though to a lesser extent. Health officials are working to extend the surveillance and control measures to these areas as well. The Civil Surgeon emphasized the importance of community participation in preventing the spread of dengue, urging residents to cooperate with health workers and take personal responsibility for eliminating mosquito breeding sites around their homes.

Nationally, Bangladesh is facing one of its worst dengue outbreaks on record. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reported over 1,300 deaths and over 200,000 cases across the country this year. The ongoing monsoon season, coupled with factors like urbanization and inadequate public health infrastructure, are contributing to the crisis. Experts are calling for a long-term, integrated approach to dengue control, including improved sanitation, waste management, and vector surveillance.

The Khulna district administration has warned that the situation could worsen if the rainfall persists. They are appealing to citizens to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from dengue fever. Further updates on the situation in Khulna will be provided as they become available.