The dengue menace could not have come at a worst time. At a time when the country is struggling hard to quell the spread of Covid-19, dengue has become an additional burden on our distress.
Comparing to the havoc now being wreaked by the coronavirus across the world in terms of fatalities, dengue is a minor health problem. But in Bangladesh, it could be a serious problem, if necessary awareness building programmes are not launched immidietly. In this regard, it is good to note that of late an anti-mosquito drive has been launched in the capital to control the infestation of Aedes mosquito, which is responsible for the transmission of deadly dengue virus. Also, both the mayors of Dhaka are working cordially to keep the Dhaka city mosquito-free.
Proper hygiene and sanitation can help
prevent the transmission
of dengue
virus
It is alarming to note that last month accounted for 60 percent of the dengue cases recorded this year. Experts apprehend that that city dwellers will witness a worse dengue outbreak in the coming days. Therefore, if relevant authorities do not devise necessary measures imminently to control Aedes mosquitoes, there might be a surge in the number of dengue patients, which would pose a serious danger in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
We know that Dengue mosquitoes thrive in areas with stagnant water in puddles, water tanks, containers and old tyres. Hence, at the household level, people need to be aware of these issues, and keep their houses clean. The best way to prevent the disease from spreading in settlements is to remove waterlogged areas, keep the settlements always clean and properly dump bio-degradable garbage away from human settlements and use insecticide-treated mosquito nets. These are not difficult tasks. Proper hygiene and sanitation can help prevent the transmission of dengue virus.
