The incidence of dengue fever in Bangladesh has risen to alarming levels, with the highest infection rates reported in the climate-vulnerable southern districts.
According to the latest data from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), one-third of all hospitalized dengue patients across the country are from Barguna district, prompting nationwide concern among health authorities.
Teams of trained health workers and volunteers are working across Barguna town, Pathorghata, Bamna, Betagi, Amtali, and Taltali, conducting door-to-door awareness campaigns, eliminating mosquito breeding sites at the source, and collaborating with local authorities and community volunteers to run cleanliness drives.
In May and June alone, Barguna recorded 2,855 dengue cases. Irregular rainfall, high temperatures, unplanned water storage, and inadequate sanitation have contributed to the rapid breeding of Aedes mosquitoes, making Barguna the current epicentre of the country’s dengue crisis.
The health directorate has already identified the Barisal division as a high-risk area.
To support the national dengue prevention efforts, Brac’s Health Program has launched an emergency health response in Barguna.
Since June 17, Brac teams have visited 6,510 households, identifying and eliminating 2,141 active mosquito breeding sites.
Dr Shayla Islam, Associate Director, Brac Health Programme (BHP), said: “High temperatures, intermittent rainfall, and unplanned water storage in communities with weak sanitation systems, all create ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes. Our response goes beyond mosquito control. We are building local resilience and strengthening the frontline health system to manage climate-linked disease threats before they spiral out of control."
To prevent further spread of dengue, public announcements are being made in high-risk areas during the evening, informing people about symptoms, preventive measures, and when to seek treatment.
In addition, awareness messages are being disseminated through mosques, temples, local schools, and madrasas.
School-based awareness activities are also being carried out to sensitise students.
This initiative is being conducted in coordination with the offices of the district commissioner and civil surgeon, Barguna municipality, BDCLEAN, Red Crescent volunteers, and local ward committees. Clean-up efforts and the application of larvicides continue in mosque courtyards, school grounds, and market areas.
Dr Muhammad Abul Fatha, Civil Surgeon of Barguna, stated: “Out of the 2,855 reported cases so far, 2,701 patients have recovered and returned home, which gives us hope. However, without preventive measures, our health systems would come under severe strain.”
Under Brac’s Health Program (BHP), the Climate Change and Health project is working to prevent climate-sensitive diseases. As part of this project, field health workers are receiving training on integrated vector control, waste management, and sanitation awareness.
The primary goal is to empower local communities to identify and respond to their own health risks. Brac will continue its efforts in the region until the dengue outbreak is brought fully under control.
