Dengue cases have surged alarmingly in Meherpur, with over 400 cases reported in just one and a half months. The outbreak is largely attributed to the absence of mosquito eradication efforts, lack of preparedness by local authorities, and insufficient public awareness campaigns.
The dengue outbreak has overwhelmed healthcare facilities. Every day, new patients are admitted to Meherpur's 250-bed General Hospital, as well as Gangni and Mujibnagar Upazila Health Complexes. Over 24 hours alone, 12 patients were admitted to Meherpur 250-bed General Hospital, 8 to Gangni Upazila Health Complex, and 3 to Mujibnagar Upazila Health Complex.
As of Sunday, there are 16 patients receiving treatment at Gangni Upazila Health Complex, 25 at Meherpur 250-bed General Hospital, and 5 at Mujibnagar Upazila Health Complex.
According to the district health department, the number of dengue cases continues to rise. In August, 151 dengue patients were identified, with 80 at Meherpur General Hospital, 66 at Gangni Upazila Health Complex, and 5 at Mujibnagar Upazila Health Complex. By September 24, a total of 250 more patients had been admitted, bringing the district's total cases to over 400.
Medical professionals are concerned that many residents initially seek treatment from unqualified healthcare providers in rural areas, only visiting hospitals when their conditions worsen. Blood tests reveal that many of these patients are infected with dengue, often exacerbating the district's already strained healthcare resources.
Dengue patients are currently being housed alongside general patients in hospitals, raising concerns about cross-infection risks. Health authorities have acknowledged the space limitations but assure that facilities for diagnosing and treating dengue are available.
Residents and local officials have criticized the municipality for failing to implement mosquito eradication measures. Despite significant budget allocations for the use of fogging machines, spraying has not been done in many areas, and planned public awareness campaigns have not been conducted. Allegations of embezzlement against the mayors of Meherpur and Gangni municipalities have emerged, accusing them of misappropriating funds intended for mosquito control.
The situation is exacerbated by the lack of action from the district and upazila administrations, health departments, and local councils. Stagnant water in both urban and rural areas has become a breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes, which are responsible for spreading dengue.
The slow pace of construction on the Meherpur-Kushtia regional highway has further worsened the situation, particularly in Gangni. Ditches along the road have accumulated water, providing an ideal environment for Aedes mosquitoes to breed. These mosquitoes are spreading the virus throughout the municipality.
Azizul Haque Rani, a resident of Bazarpara, Gangni, and local officials such as Helal Uddin of The Hunger Project Bangladesh, journalist Mahbub Alam, and nurse Shakila from Gangni Upazila Health Complex, have highlighted the severe symptoms experienced by dengue patients. These include high fever, abdominal pain, headaches, vomiting, dizziness, and diarrhea.
Gangni Upazila Health Complex’s Residential Medical Officer, Dr. Abdul Al Maruf, emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and preventive measures. "Many are coming with fever for treatment. They are being advised to have blood tests and use mosquito nets," he said.
Dr. Jamir Mohammad Hasibur Sattar, superintendent of Meherpur General Hospital, added, “We have all the necessary kits, separate wards, and other preparations for treatment. However, campaigns need to be conducted to raise awareness. Keeping the surroundings clean and ensuring there’s no stagnant water are crucial steps.”
The authorities fear that the number of dengue cases could rise further unless preventive measures are urgently implemented.