World Bank Senior Operations Officer Iffat Mahmud has said that the number of dengue cases rises in Bangladesh during the rainy months.
“Rainfall between 200mm-800mm, temperatures of 25°C-35°C and humidity of 60%-80% provide ideal conditions for Aedes mosquito breeding,” she said during her presentation on “Impact of Dengue Outbreak Due to Climate Change” on Wednesday.
The information was shared at a workshop titled "Dengue Prevention and Control: Information Sharing Session".
Organized by the Local Government Division and supported by the World Bank, the event took place at a hotel in Dhaka.
Mahmud's presentation highlighted that Aedes mosquitoes primarily breed in freshwater, which includes water collected on Taro leaves in villages.
The main dengue season typically spans from May to either July or September, she said.
“However, an extended dengue season can start from January, particularly if there is increased rainfall, as seen in 2022. Cases can then rise from April and continue until December,” she added.
Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Md Tajul Islam said: "From the year's start, city corporations received ample support from the ministry, ensuring they had the necessary drugs, equipment, and manpower to tackle Aedes mosquitoes.”
“Nonetheless, the record number of deaths due to dengue this year is deeply concerning and distressing. Given our geographical location, countries like ours face significant challenges combating mosquito-borne diseases," he added.
The LGRD minister emphasized: "We are not adversaries; we are partners. It is crucial to discuss any uncertainties in dengue prevention and control."
Answering why the numbers had not decreased despite efforts, he said: "Our infection and death rates this year surpassed all prior records. The World Bank suggests that dengue spreads mainly during rainy periods. Hence, public awareness and participation are vital for mosquito prevention."
Addressing reporters' queries about the felling of trees on Sat Masjid road in Dhaka's Dhanmondi area, he said: "Actions will be taken against those who cut down trees without valid reasons or permissions."
World Bank's Country Director for Bangladesh Abdoulaye Seck said: "The rate of dengue is rising alarmingly. We need heightened awareness."
