Crisis Unleashed: 2023 Dengue Outbreak Records Alarming 1,705 Deaths

Crisis Unleashed: 2023 Dengue Outbreak Records Alarming 1,705 Deaths, Experts Urge Swift Action and Improved Surveillance for 2024″

In 2023, a severe dengue outbreak hit the nation, marking the worst since the disease’s first appearance in 2000. The year saw 1,705 dengue-related deaths and 321,179 reported cases, a significant increase from previous years. Factors contributing to the severity included second-time infections, late hospitalization, and comorbidity. Changing virus patterns, false testing kit results, and the presence of dangerous serotypes DEN-2 and DEN-3 were identified as key reasons for the high mortality.

Mugda Medical College and Hospital had the highest reported cases, while Dhaka Medical College Hospital reported the most deaths. Second-time infections played a major role in increased mortality rates, as revealed by the death review committee of Directorate General of Health Services. Experts also noted the quick progression of critical conditions and issues with false test results.

Entomologists emphasized the importance of early action in 2024 to control dengue, pointing out concerns about inadequate equipment procurement and ineffective surveillance methods. They highlighted that the reported data might not reflect the actual situation, as a large number of dengue cases go unreported due to limited data from a fraction of the country’s healthcare facilities. The call for comprehensive information to enhance mosquito control efforts and larvae destruction was emphasized.

Source: https://www.thedailystar.net/health/disease/news/2023-the-year-dengue-devastation-3507931

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