Dengue cases have continued to rise in Chittagong, with 760 infections recorded in the first 12 days of September.
According to the Civil Surgeon’s Office, 2,795 dengue cases have been reported in Chittagong from January to September 12. Of them, 1,214 patients are from Chittagong city, 1,234 from different upazilas and 349 from other districts under the division.
Ten people have died of the mosquito-borne disease, while 262 patients are currently receiving treatment in different hospitals. Chittagong Medical College Hospital has the highest number of dengue patients.
Monthly figures show a sharp increase during the monsoon. The district recorded 68 cases in January, 22 in February, 20 in March, 29 in April, 37 in May, 122 in June, 534 in July, 1,206 in August and 760 in the first 11 days of September.
Among the 15 upazilas, Sitakunda recorded the highest number of cases at 355, followed by Karnaphuli with 195, Banshkhali 95, Rangunia 83, Raozan 67, Patiya 62, Boalkhali 49, Hathazari 37 and Mirsarai 36.
The Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) has launched a special mosquito-control campaign as dengue cases rise. A survey by its health department identified 155 potential Aedes breeding grounds across the city, including educational institutions, construction sites, abandoned buildings and residential areas.
CCC officials said eight wards have been identified as dengue hotspots. Insecticides are being sprayed at the homes of dengue patients and within a 500-metre radius.
Malaria and Mosquito Control Officer Md Sarful Islam Mahi said breeding sites have been destroyed and insecticides applied in the identified hotspots.
Civil Surgeon Dr Mohammad Sajedur Rahman said dengue prevention requires both mosquito control and the destruction of Aedes breeding grounds. He said the health department has asked the city corporation to intensify mosquito-control activities.
CCC Executive Officer and Secretary Ashraful Amin said the corporation is using BTI to destroy mosquito larvae, alongside fogging to kill adult mosquitoes. More than 100 workers have received special training for the campaign.
