Dengue Epidemic in Bangladesh Surges Past 100,000 Hospitalizations This Year

The ongoing dengue outbreak in Bangladesh has reached a staggering milestone, with the number of hospitalised cases exceeding 100,000 for the third time since the disease first emerged in the country in 2000. Recent statistics from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reveal that as of Saturday morning, at least 1,00,029 individuals have been admitted for treatment this year, accompanied by a tragic death toll that has now risen to 561. In just the last 24 hours, the nation reported an additional 141 hospitalisations and three fatalities, highlighting the relentless grip of this mosquito-borne disease on public health. The virus, which has plagued Bangladesh since the turn of the millennium, has resulted in unprecedented numbers this year, with 2023 marking a record high of 1,705 deaths and over 3,21,179 hospital admissions. Historically, the dengue situation in Bangladesh has fluctuated, with a particularly severe outbreak in 2019 that saw 276 deaths and over 1,01,354 people hospitalised. However, the current year's statistics are alarming, demonstrating a significant increase compared to the cumulative totals from 2000 to 2022, which recorded only 853 deaths and 2,44,246 hospital admissions. The outbreak appears to be extending beyond the typical seasonal peak, which usually spans from May to October. This year, unusual levels of hospitalisations and fatalities have persisted into December, raising concerns among health officials as to the effectiveness of current intervention strategies. Of the hospitalised cases, approximately 37,870 have been reported in the capital, Dhaka, while the remainder are spread across various districts. Demographically, the majority of cases involve men, who account for 63% of hospitalisations, while the gender distribution of deaths shows a slight female predominance, with 290 women versus 271 men succumbing to the disease. The monthly breakdown of hospitalisations and fatalities provides further insight into the severity of this outbreak. The peak hospitalisation month was November, with 58,361 admissions, followed by a significant number of cases in October and December. Notably, the death toll has seen alarming spikes during the latter months of the year, particularly in October with 173 deaths, and a heartbreaking 71 in just the first three weeks of December. Experts are stressing the need for immediate action to combat the persistent mosquito population, which remains a critical factor in the ongoing outbreak. Professor Md Golam Sharower from the National Institute of Preventive and Social Medicine expressed concern that the expected decline in dengue cases with the onset of winter has not yet materialised. He called for increased research into both the dengue vectors and the efficacy of insecticides currently in use. Adding to the complexity of the situation, the Institute of Epidemiology Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) has reported the active circulation of three dengue virus serotypes: DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. Notably, DENV-2 has dominated this year's infections, detected in 70% of patients. The possibility of mutations in the virus has been raised, though significant research into these changes remains sparse. The current dengue crisis in Bangladesh underscores the urgent need for effective public health strategies, increased research funding, and heightened awareness about preventative measures. As the country grapples with the ongoing challenges posed by this disease, the health and safety of its citizens remain a pressing concern, demanding immediate and sustained intervention.