Dengue fever in Bangladesh: rising trends, contributing factors, and public health implications

Abstract

Dengue fever has emerged as a major public health crisis in Bangladesh, with an unprecedented surge in cases and fatalities in recent years. This paper analyzed the epidemiological trends, contributing factors, and public health implications of the rising dengue burden in the country. Surveillance data revealed a staggering 203,406 dengue cases and 989 deaths between January and September 2023, marking a 1.9-fold increase compared with the entire year of 2019. The capital bears the brunt of the outbreak and accounts for over half of all cases and deaths. Climatic factors, rapid urbanization, population density, insecticide resistance, and a lack of public awareness have created a perfect storm for dengue transmission. The overburdened healthcare system struggles to cope with the influx of patients, leading to a compromised quality of care and economic strain. Vulnerable populations have a heightened risk of developing severe complications and mortality. This paper highlights the urgent need for a multipronged approach encompassing surveillance, case management, vector control, risk communication, and community engagement to combat the dengue epidemic in Bangladesh. Sustained political commitment, adequate resources, and strong multi-sectoral collaboration are imperative to reduce the disease burden and safeguard public health in the face of this escalating threat.

Keywords: Bangladesh; Dengue fever; Epidemiology; Good health and well-being; Public health.

Fig. 1

Annual reported dengue cases in Bangladesh (2018–2023)

Fig. 2

Annual reported dengue deaths in Bangladesh (2018–2023)