Higher dengue infections, Aedes breeding sites raise risks in five divisions: state minister

Five divisions are facing a heightened dengue threat, with Khulna, Barishal, Dhaka, Chattogram and Mymensingh reporting more infections and Aedes breeding sites, State Minister for Local Government Mir Shahe Alam has told parliament.

On Wednesday, he said 45,475 dengue patients had been hospitalised nationwide from Jan 1 to Tuesday, with 130 deaths. Another 3,218 patients are undergoing treatment.

The government will launch a three-month “Dengue Prevention and Cleanliness Campaign-2026” from Sep 12 to Dec 12, involving 11 city corporations, 330 municipalities, 64 district administrations and 503 Upazila administrations.

The minister warned September, October and November are the riskiest months and infections could double without preventive action.

He urged lawmakers to promote cleanliness and public awareness, particularly by eliminating stagnant water and Aedes breeding sites.

Five beds will be reserved for dengue patients at Upazila hospitals in high-risk areas. Testing kits and saline are sufficiently stocked, he said.

Hospitals will also keep dengue patients under mosquito nets to prevent further transmission.