The number of dengue cases is rising nationwide. This year, 62,199 individuals have been affected by dengue, resulting in 300 fatalities.
Among those affected, individuals aged 16 to 30 are the most vulnerable, and this age group has also recorded the highest number of deaths.
Medicine specialist Professor Emeritus Dr. ABM Abdullah said that young people are particularly vulnerable to dengue.
Even in the absence of mosquitoes at home, their increased time spent outdoors for studying, work, or leisure heightens the risk of mosquito bites. Consequently, this age group experiences a higher rate of infection.
The nature of dengue has become increasingly complex. Many patients progress rapidly to shock, and experience various complications, leading to a higher mortality rate among young people.
Children and elderly patients are at greater risk, making vigilance crucial for these groups.
He advised that if symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, or diarrhea arise, a rapid test should be conducted promptly. If dengue is confirmed, medication should be taken only under a doctor's guidance, as self-medicating without a prescription is not recommended.
The doctor also emphasized the importance of increasing fluid intake—water, juice, and other hydrating options—for those infected with dengue.
According to the Health Directorate's dengue report, 382 individuals were admitted to hospitals on Thursday due to dengue, and 3 people died. Of those affected, 176 were hospitalized in the capital.
Among the deceased, two were residents of the Dhaka North City Corporation, and one was from Mymensingh.
As of October, a total of 61,817 individuals have been affected by dengue.
Among them, 8,216 are aged 16 to 20, 9,545 are aged 21 to 25, and 8,731 are aged 26 to 30. In total, 26,492 cases have been reported among those aged 16 to 30. During this period, dengue has claimed 297 lives, with 16 deaths among the 16 to 20 age group, 29 among those aged 21 to 25, and 30 among those aged 26 to 30.
Overall, 75 deaths have occurred within the 16 to 30 age group.
This year, October saw the highest number of infections and fatalities, with 30,879 cases reported and 134 deaths. In January, 1,055 individuals were hospitalized due to dengue, with 14 fatalities; in February, 339 were admitted and 3 died; in March, there were 311 cases and 5 deaths; in April, 504 were affected with 2 fatalities; in May, 644 cases were reported with 12 deaths; and in June, 798 were affected with 8 fatalities.
From mid-year onward, cases began to rise significantly, surpassing 2,000. In July, 2,669 individuals were hospitalized, resulting in 12 deaths. In August, the number of cases surged to 6,521, with 27 deaths. September saw three times the number of cases compared to August, with 18,097 hospitalizations and 80 fatalities.
Translated by ARK/Bd-Pratidin English
