Dengue Outbreak Escalates: Dhaka South Declares New Red Zones
In a concerning turn of events, the Dhaka South region in Bangladesh has declared 22 areas, including Hazaribagh and Shonir Akhra, as “dengue red zones.” This drastic measure comes in response to a recent surge in dengue infections within these localities, with 11 confirmed cases recorded between September 2nd and 8th. To combat the spread of this mosquito-borne disease, authorities are implementing a comprehensive program involving special cleaning and the eradication of Aedes mosquito breeding sites.
The Red Zones
The areas designated as “dengue red zones” are divided between two wards: 14 and 56. Ward 56 encompasses West Rasulpur, East Rasulpur, South Rasulpur, Borogram West, Borogram, Islamnagar, Alinagar, Huzurpara, and West Ashrafabad. On the other hand, Ward 14 includes Jigatala (Tin Majar), Jigatala Staff Quarters, Tallabagh and Mitali Road, Charakghata Tallabagh and Tali Office Road, Birban Kachra, Gajmahal Road, Hazaribagh Tannery Area, South Sultanganj, Sonatnagar (Maneshwar), Maneshwar (Jigatala), Shikaritola, Maneshwar (1-38), and South Madhubazar.
These red zones have been identified as hotspots for dengue transmission, prompting immediate action to prevent further outbreaks.
The Criteria for Red Zone Declaration
This isn’t the first time Dhaka South has declared red zones due to the dengue outbreak. On August 23rd, it was announced that any ward with more than 10 dengue patients in a week would be designated a “dengue red zone.” This proactive approach is aimed at swiftly identifying and addressing areas at high risk of dengue transmission.
Anti-Mosquito Measures
To contain the dengue outbreak, authorities are launching special anti-mosquito drives in the red zones. These initiatives involve comprehensive cleaning efforts, including the use of larvicide in the morning and adulticide in the afternoon. These measures aim to target both the mosquito larvae and the adult Aedes mosquitoes responsible for transmitting the dengue virus.
A Sobering Death Toll
The gravity of the dengue situation in Bangladesh becomes even more apparent when we consider the rising death toll. As of the latest update from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), the death toll from dengue fever in the country has reached a staggering 790 this year. Over the past 24 hours, 12 more patients succumbed to the disease, with four of them undergoing treatment in Dhaka and the rest in other regions.
The Rising Patient Count
Alongside the rising death toll, the number of dengue patients continues to climb. During the same 24-hour period, a total of 2,129 new dengue patients were hospitalized, bringing the total to 1,61,964 admissions this year. Of these new cases, 843 were reported in Dhaka city, while 1,286 were from various parts of the country.
The Ongoing Battle
Currently, 9,891 dengue patients are receiving treatment at various hospitals across Bangladesh, with 4,016 of them being treated in Dhaka. The situation remains critical, and health authorities are working tirelessly to provide the necessary care and containment measures.
The declaration of 22 new “dengue red zones” in Dhaka South reflects the severity of the dengue outbreak in Bangladesh. With a rising death toll and an increasing number of patients, it is crucial for authorities to continue their efforts in controlling the spread of the disease. The comprehensive program in these red zones, coupled with ongoing anti-mosquito drives and public awareness campaigns, is a testament to the determination to combat this public health crisis.
As the battle against dengue rages on, the cooperation of communities, healthcare professionals, and government agencies is more critical than ever. Preventative measures, such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites and raising awareness about dengue prevention, will play a pivotal role in ultimately defeating this relentless disease.