Dhaka : Bangladesh is facing a severe dengue outbreak in 2025, with the total number of cases reaching 61,605 so far this year, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). In the past 24 hours alone, 814 new dengue cases were reported.
The outbreak has also claimed four more lives, bringing the total number of dengue-related deaths this year to 253. October alone has seen 14,263 infections, following 15,866 cases in September, with 55 deaths recorded in October. DGHS data shows that September saw 76 deaths and August 39, highlighting a worrying trend of the disease spreading beyond its usual monsoon season.
Dengue fever, a viral infection spread by mosquitoes, is traditionally a June-September illness in Bangladesh. However, this year, it continues to surge beyond its typical season, according to Xinhua news agency.
Most people infected with dengue show mild or no symptoms, but common signs include high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash. Severe dengue can be life-threatening and may require hospital care. Since no specific cure exists, treatment focuses on managing pain and preventing complications. Avoiding mosquito bites, especially during the day, remains the best way to reduce risk.
Globally, dengue has increased dramatically over the past two decades. WHO reports show that cases rose from 505,430 in 2000 to 14.6 million in 2024, with more than 12,000 deaths worldwide in that year alone. The Americas region contributed significantly, reporting over 13 million cases. The true number of dengue infections is likely higher, as many cases are mild, asymptomatic, and go unreported.
As Bangladesh battles this outbreak, health experts urge early detection, proper hydration, and hospital care for severe cases, while also stressing community efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
–IANS
