Last year, we saw what was perhaps among the deadliest of dengue outbreaks in Bangladesh, and so, fears of the recurrence of such an epidemic this year would not have been entirely unwarranted either. Especially with the Covid-19 pandemic predicted to see a second wave this winter, a dengue outbreak on top of that would have proven devastating for the population.
However, it is certainly reassuring to see that, as a result of the Dhaka North City Corporation’s proactive mosquito eradication campaign, we will most likely not have to see a repeat of last year’s dengue disaster.
The DNCC’s thorough plan of action -- which included investigating houses and installations, discarding accumulated stale water, applying mosquito repellent, and fining those in violation -- has already begun to yield results as well. While last year’s outbreak killed 179 people, 2020 has seen no deaths so far. Undoubtedly, this is remarkable progress.
While appreciation is certainly in order, it is also important to remember that this is just the beginning, and a drive that has proven successful so far must be seen through to the end for it to be fully effective. A concerted effort involving citizen intervention and awareness in addition to the DNCC campaign is also vital to ensuring that the low rate of cases this year stays that way.
With the coronavirus pandemic killing nearly 6,000 people in the country already, we cannot afford to lose more people to what is a preventable disease like dengue. And while we ought to be proud of the progress we have made over the course of a mere year, the eradication plans must be thoroughly followed through, both with the help of the authorities and the citizens.
