Chittagong is facing a renewed dengue threat with the arrival of the monsoon, as health authorities warn that infections may rise further unless prevention efforts are strengthened. Officials report a noticeable spike in cases in recent months, raising concerns about a possible outbreak similar to previous years.
During the first five months of the current year, 176 dengue patients were hospitalized in the city. However, infections surged sharply in June alone, with 122 new cases recorded. In the first two days of July, another 19 patients were admitted, signaling a continuing upward trend.
A recent survey by the Divisional Health Directorate has revealed widespread mosquito breeding in the city. Out of 370 households inspected across 18 of the city’s 41 wards, nearly one in four homes—99 households or 26.76%—were found to have Aedes mosquito larvae. Investigators also identified 114 water-holding containers serving as active breeding sites. The presence of Aedes mosquitoes was confirmed in every ward included in the survey.
Health officials have identified eight high-risk wards where dengue and chikungunya transmission is most likely to intensify. These include North Kattali, Pahartali, Alkaran, West Bakalia, South Bakalia, South Halishahar, Patharghata, and Andarkilla. Laboratory findings showed that around 70–80% of the mosquitoes were Aedes aegypti, while the remainder were Aedes albopictus.
According to the Civil Surgeon’s Office, a total of 317 dengue patients had been hospitalized as of July 2, with 33 currently receiving treatment. One dengue-related death has been reported this year. Monthly data shows a fluctuating but rising trend: 68 cases in January, 22 in February, 20 in March, 29 in April, 37 in May, 122 in June, and 19 in the first two days of July.
Chittagong recorded 271 cases and five deaths in 2021. The situation worsened in 2022 with 5,445 cases and 41 deaths. The worst outbreak came in 2023, with 14,087 infections and 107 fatalities. Although cases dropped in 2024 to 4,323 with 45 deaths, and 2025 recorded 4,864 cases with 25 deaths, the threat remains persistent.
Health officials say the latest survey results are alarming and have been forwarded to the Chittagong City Corporation, which is responsible for mosquito control operations. Authorities have instructed hospitals to maintain adequate stocks of IV saline, medicines, and emergency supplies, while awareness campaigns have been expanded.
Officials say coordinated efforts are ongoing across all 41 wards to contain mosquito breeding and prevent a larger outbreak during the peak monsoon season.
