Experts Warn of Continued Dengue Growth Through September in Bangladesh

Dhaka, Aug 8 — Academic specialists caution that Bangladesh’s dengue outbreak is unlikely to subside before the end of September. Professor Kabirul Bashar of Jahangirnagar University predicts that the disease may reach its apex in September, with case numbers rising steadily through August.

The Directorate General of Health Services reports 59 deaths and nearly 18,000 confirmed cases this year, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. While Dhaka bears the majority of infections, Barishal, Chattogram and Khulna also register substantial case loads.

Saifur Rahman, associate professor of zoology, attributes the surge to a perfect storm of high temperatures, dense urban habitats and unchecked mosquito breeding. He stresses that vector‑control actions are often delayed until after the dengue season has gained momentum, limiting their effectiveness.

Both scientists advocate for a national mosquito‑control authority staffed by entomology experts to coordinate pre‑emptive actions, such as larval habitat elimination and community awareness campaigns. They warn that without a coordinated response, dengue could maintain a high transmission rate well into the post‑monsoon period.

Health officials are urged to accelerate control measures while breeding sites are still relatively few, making eradication more feasible. The coming weeks will be decisive in determining whether Bangladesh can curb the spread before the disease peaks.