Although the number of dengue infections is higher than last year but the death rate is lower, said Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) Director General Prof Dr Md. Abu Jafor on Thursday.

“This year, the number of dengue infections is higher than last year, but the death rate in proportion to infections is lower,” he said at a press briefing held over the ‘Typhoid Vaccination Capaign-2025’ at the Health Ministry.

He said the breeding of mosquitoes and the destruction of their larvae are key for preventing dengue. “People must use mosquito nets and take protective measures. These are mostly individual responsibilities. If we neglect these, it will be very difficult to eliminate dengue.”

“Our data shows that over 50% of dengue deaths in hospitals are occurring on the very first day of admission. This suggests that patients are seeking care too. We are doing our best to ensure proper management in hospitals,” he said.

He said early diagnosis is essential and if detected in the initial stage, dengue can be treated at home with proper medical advice.

Lack of awareness, negligence and delay in seeking care are the main reasons behind the rising dengue death rate, he added.

Besides, Additional Secretary of Health Services Division ATM Saiful Islam a total of 220 people have died from dengue fever so far this year.said a total of 220 people have died from dengue fever so far this year.

3 more die of dengue; 700 hospitalised

In 2023, over three lakh people were infected with dengue and nearly 1,750 died while in 2024, there were around 1.5 lakh cases with about 520 deaths, he said adding “This year, we are approaching the end of the calendar year and until yesterday, 220 dengue-related deaths have been recorded."

“Although we haven’t been able to completely eliminate dengue, we are moving toward success thanks to the government’s ongoing efforts. Our goal is to reduce future deaths to zero and we are striving to prevent as many cases as possible,” said the additional secretary.