Dengue fever results in another fatality, as 406 new instances are reported within a day.
As the monsoon season grips Bangladesh, the country is grappling with a significant dengue outbreak, with over 13,594 infections and 52 fatalities reported since January 2025. The latest data from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reveals a concerning acceleration in infections and mortality rates, particularly in recent months.
Hospitals across the country have been inundated with patients, with a sharp surge occurring in June where 5,951 hospital admissions were recorded. Earlier months showed lower counts, but June alone accounted for nearly half of the total cases this year. The situation has become so dire that 425 new admissions were reported in a single day recently, and 406 more patients were hospitalized during the 24 hours till July 9.
The outbreak is not restricted to the capital city, with dengue cases reported in 60 districts, illustrating a broader geographic spread than in 2023 (56 districts) and 2024 (54 districts). The most affected regions include Barishal division (especially Barguna district with over 1,400 cases), Chattogram, and Dhaka (both North and South City Corporations). Other affected divisions are Khulna, Mymensingh, Rajshahi, Rangpur, and Sylhet.
The most recent fatality was reported from the Dhaka South City Corporation, bringing the total death toll to 52 this year. The city has also seen a significant number of new cases, with 36 and 53 cases recorded under Dhaka North City Corporation and Dhaka South City Corporation, respectively. Elsewhere, outside the capital, five dengue cases were reported in Rangpur Division, four in Mymensingh Division, 31 in Rajshahi Division, 35 in Khulna Division, two in Sylhet Division, and 78 in Chattogram Division.
The data suggests that dengue in Bangladesh is no longer strictly seasonal but occurring year-round, a concerning trend that health authorities are closely monitoring. Although 2025's outbreak is not yet at 2023’s catastrophic levels (321,017 hospitalizations and 1,705 deaths), experts warn of a potentially devastating season without urgent containment and healthcare preparedness.
Last year, dengue claimed 575 lives in the country, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to combat the disease. As the nation braces for the remainder of the monsoon season, health authorities are urging citizens to take precautions to prevent mosquito breeding and protect themselves from the disease. These measures include eliminating standing water, using mosquito nets, and wearing protective clothing during peak mosquito hours.
In the face of this severe outbreak, Bangladesh's health authorities are working tirelessly to contain the spread of dengue and provide adequate care for those affected. The fight against this disease is far from over, but with increased awareness, prevention efforts, and healthcare preparedness, the nation can work towards reducing the impact of dengue on its people.
Science reveals a year-round pattern in dengue outbreaks in Bangladesh, a troubling development health authorities are closely monitoring. Medical-conditions like chronic diseases and mental health, coupled with proper nutrition, can enhance individuals' resilience to dengue and other health-and-wellness challenges. To combat this persistent issue, citizens are urged to take preventive measures, such as eliminating standing water, using mosquito nets, and adhering to protective clothing during peak mosquito hours, while healthcare services continue to work tirelessly to manage the situation and improve patient care.
