Rain Sparks Fear of Dengue Outbreak in Bangladesh
Experts Warn Surge in Cases Amid Early Monsoon Rains
Bangladesh is witnessing a worrying spike in dengue cases following early monsoon rains, raising alarms about a possible major outbreak. Health experts and entomologists are urging immediate action to prevent a repeat—or worse—of last year’s deadly dengue season.
According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), as of May 23, the country has already recorded 3,767 dengue cases and 23 deaths in 2025. This comes months before the peak rainy season, fueling fears that the current trend could lead to record-breaking infections if left unchecked.
A Rising Trend Echoes Last Year’s Crisis
In April 2025 alone, Bangladesh logged 701 dengue cases. Within just the first 23 days of May, that number jumped by 1,195. This sharp rise resembles the early warning signs seen in 2023, which ended with over 1,01,000 cases and 575 fatalities, making it the deadliest dengue season in Bangladesh’s history.
Health authorities and researchers believe the current rainfall pattern, paired with insufficient preventive efforts, could trigger a similar or even worse outcome this year.
Experts Sound the Alarm on Aedes Mosquito Breeding
Entomologist Prof Kabirul Bashar of Jahangirnagar University stated that the population of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes—the primary carriers of the dengue virus—is rising rapidly across the country.
“The dengue situation may become worse than last year if urgent action, particularly breeding source reduction, is not undertaken immediately,” he warned.
Prof Bashar emphasized that the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives (LGRD) must issue immediate directives to combat mosquito breeding. He highlighted that both government bodies and the general public must work together to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, such as stagnant water in containers, rooftops, construction sites, and drains.
No National Control Programme in Place
Entomologist GM Saifur Rahman echoed similar concerns and criticized the lack of a coordinated national dengue control strategy.
“Like last year, there is no active national control programme. Without immediate intervention, the disease will likely spread to new areas,” he stated.
He also recommended that dengue be made a reportable disease in Bangladesh. Currently, the absence of mandatory reporting leads to many undocumented cases, hindering effective surveillance and control.
“Early detection of mosquito hotspots and immediate elimination of breeding sites after rainfall are essential to preventing a major outbreak,” he added.
Common Breeding Grounds Identified
Experts list the following as major Aedes mosquito breeding sites in both urban and rural areas:
-
Plastic drums and clay pots
-
Discarded tyres
-
Water containers for birds and pets
-
Cattle troughs and leaking pipes
-
Construction sites with stagnant water
-
Roofs and courtyards where rainwater collects
Simple preventive measures—such as cleaning flower vases, covering water containers, and clearing rooftop drains—can significantly reduce mosquito breeding.
Hospitals Brace for Patient Surge
While the current patient load is low, medical professionals are preparing for a potential rise in admissions.
Dr HM Nazmul Ahsan, associate professor at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, reported that dengue patients are currently being treated in general wards, but dedicated dengue wards will be set up if the number of cases rises sharply.
“We’re advising patients with fever to immediately consult a doctor and undergo dengue testing,” he said.
“Proper hydration is essential for recovery. Coconut water, saline, fruit juices, and homemade drinks help replace lost fluids and provide essential nutrients.”
What the Public Can Do to Prevent Dengue
To control the spread of dengue, public awareness and individual action are critical. Health authorities recommend the following steps for households and communities:
-
Empty and clean containers that collect rainwater
-
Use mosquito nets and repellents, especially during the day
-
Install mesh screens on windows and doors
-
Wear long-sleeved clothes and cover exposed skin
-
Participate in community cleanup drives to remove breeding grounds
City corporations are also being urged to intensify their cleaning efforts, conduct fogging operations, and monitor mosquito density in high-risk areas.
Urgent Need for Government-Community Collaboration
Experts are calling on the government to launch a national emergency dengue prevention campaign, including educational outreach, mosquito surveillance, and stronger law enforcement against those neglecting hygiene standards on their properties.
“It’s not just the responsibility of the government—every household, every neighborhood, must stay vigilant,” Prof Bashar emphasized.
Conclusion: Act Now to Prevent a Public Health Crisis
With early monsoon rains accelerating the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes and the number of dengue cases rising, Bangladesh faces a looming health threat. Swift action from the government, coordinated community efforts, and proactive public participation are all critical in stopping what could become a devastating dengue outbreak in 2025.
If the lessons from past years are not taken seriously, the nation may once again confront overwhelmed hospitals, rising fatalities, and a crisis that was preventable through timely action.
