The number of dengue cases reported this year has surpassed last year’s figure, but the fatality rate has declined, said Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) Director General Prof Md Abu Jafor on Thursday.
“This year, the total number of dengue infections is higher than last year. However, the proportion of deaths compared to infections is lower,” he told a press conference on the upcoming ‘Typhoid Vaccination Campaign 2025’ held at the health ministry.
Highlighting prevention as the key to controlling the disease, Dr Jafor said, “Destroying mosquito breeding grounds and larvae is crucial to stopping the spread of dengue.
Individuals must take responsibility by using mosquito nets and other protective measures. Without collective and personal efforts, it will be extremely challenging to eradicate dengue.”
Citing official data, he noted that more than half of dengue-related deaths in hospitals are happening within the first 24 hours of admission. “This indicates patients are arriving at hospitals too late. We are working to ensure that hospitals provide proper and timely treatment,” he added.
He stressed that early diagnosis and timely medical attention can significantly reduce the severity of the disease. “If detected in the early stages, dengue can often be managed at home with proper medical guidance. Unfortunately, delayed treatment, lack of awareness, and negligence remain the biggest obstacles,” he said.
Additional Secretary of the Health Services Division ATM Saiful Islam said 220 people have died of dengue so far this year. In 2023, the country recorded over 300,000 dengue cases with nearly 1,750 deaths.
In 2024, around 150,000 infections and 520 deaths were reported. “As of yesterday, 220 dengue-related deaths have been confirmed in 2025,” he stated.
“While we have not yet completely eliminated dengue, the government’s ongoing initiatives are yielding positive results. Our objective is to bring dengue fatalities down to zero, and we are working relentlessly to prevent further infections,” he added.
