The Battle Against Aedes Mosquitoes -Md Mahmudur Rahman

Rainfall, temperature, and relative humidity play a major role in the propagation of Aedes mosquitoes. Because these things are so common in Bangladesh, there are more Aedes mosquitoes than ever before. At the same time, the lack of responsible people and institutions and the use of chemical insecticides have made the Aedes mosquito impossible to control, giving the dengue virus a perfect place to grow. Aedes mosquitoes are hematophagous, i.e., they sense the smell, temperature, and relative humidity of the host body, determine its location, and absorb blood. On this continuum, we must have a clear idea that the adult female mosquito is looking for us all the time. So when she has a suitable host, she must try her best to bite.

Now the question is, how much effort and initiative are we putting in to protect ourselves from the sudden attack of this identified enemy? If the two and a half lakh people who have been affected by this enemy’s attack in our country for more than two decades and their socio-economic condition are fully known through history analysis, then it would be much easier and more successful to make policies and take appropriate measures. That is why the country needs skilled medical entomologists.

The research results and analysis could tell which class-occupation people are the worst victims of this terrible attack of the Aedes mosquito. The historical analysis of a total of 870 affected individuals revealed that people from all socio-economic backgrounds and professions were victims of this tragic situation. Only then would it become clear which risk factors are responsible for this dire situation. By taking proper action on those risk factors, the way to solve such an important national problem would be much easier.

Most people in third-world countries like us are not aware of their health. Unless absolutely necessary, awareness about health is far-fetched, so many do not resort to a doctor. As long as the country’s government and state machinery do not take extreme measures, free advocacy on public health cannot attract the attention of the general public. In this sequence, government or state institutions have always played the main role in public health problems. But for that, the government must have accurate research data. For example, during COVID-19, the government had to take drastic measures to protect people by creating awareness about the epidemic. Therefore, grouping the affected and dead people based on the results of the history analysis and taking specific steps can save us from this uncertain and dire situation.

Therefore, the most important thing we need to do for vector management is analyzing dengue cases and deaths with vector experts. Only medical entomologists can give a clear and accurate understanding of vector-pathogen vegetation related to public health, which is sorely lacking. The lack of arrangements for training such experts in Bangladesh is truly remarkable. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has always said that research in the field of medicine is very necessary. Medical entomology can be the milestone of basic and applied research in this regard.

We made the country independent at a very high cost. We will assume the responsibility to safeguard ourselves against hunger, poverty, malnutrition, and the spread of various diseases, and to establish a nation that is healthy, strong, and active, encompassing people from all social classes and professions, while adhering to scientific methods. We have to adopt all techniques to save the environment.

A significant portion of our country’s population, particularly in Dhaka city, leads an ordinary life. Unfortunately, many essential hygiene practices are lacking. Let’s consider the sanitation workers in Dhaka who handle garbage and germs daily. How much health awareness do they receive? Moreover, we must recognize the importance of health awareness for those who handle fish and chicken directly at the market. Have we ever contemplated the diligence required by individuals who work with deceased bodies in mortuaries or clean bathrooms to prevent disease transmission? And what about the health of the large population sleeping on pavements without mosquito nets?

The Unseen Heroes: Health and Hygiene in Dhaka City

In the bustling streets of Dhaka, where life unfolds in a chaotic rhythm, there exists an army of unsung heroes. These are the individuals who toil silently, their hands stained with the residue of everyday existence. They are the cleaning workers, the fishmongers, the mortuary attendants, and the pavement dwellers. Their lives intersect with germs, dirt, and disease, yet their health awareness often remains overlooked.

Cleaning Workers:

The streets wake up to their labor—the sweepers, the garbage collectors, and the sewer cleaners. They navigate through heaps of waste, their faces obscured by masks, their hands gloved. But how much do we consider their health? Do they have access to proper sanitation facilities? Are they aware of the risks they face daily?
These workers deserve more than just a nod of acknowledgment. Their health awareness should be a priority. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and education about hygiene can empower them to protect themselves.

Fish and Chicken Market Traders:

The vibrant markets of Dhaka teem with life. Amidst the chaos, fishmongers and poultry sellers handle raw meat with bare hands. Their livelihood depends on it, but at what cost?
Health awareness here is crucial. Proper handwashing, safe food handling practices, and awareness of zoonotic diseases can safeguard both their well-being and that of their customers.

Mortuary Attendants:

In the quiet corners of hospitals, mortuary attendants perform their solemn duties. They prepare the dead for their final journey, often dealing with contagious diseases.
Their health awareness extends beyond rituals. Protective gear, vaccinations, and mental health support are essential. Their role in preventing disease transmission is as vital as any doctor’s.

Pavement Dwellers:

Under the open sky, a large population sleeps on the unforgiving pavement. Mosquitoes buzz, diseases lurk, and vulnerability hangs heavy.

Health awareness for these individuals means more than mosquito nets. It means access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and basic healthcare. It means recognizing their humanity and ensuring their well-being.

In Dhaka, where the cacophony of life drowns out whispers of health, the surface grime and acknowledgement of the resilience of these everyday warriors have a significant contribution. Their health matters, for they are the threads that weave our city’s fabric.

In the bustling crossroads of Dhaka, where once hopeful individuals clutched shovels, their dreams now lie shattered. The harsh reality is that jobs elude them, leaving them empty-handed and their hearts broken. The specter of starvation looms, casting shadows over their lives. Yet, amidst this struggle, there is a glimmer of hope—a beacon that could illuminate their path. It lies in understanding the vulnerable segments of our population—those most susceptible to the relentless onslaught of the Aedes mosquito. By identifying these unfortunate souls, we can forge targeted policies that safeguard their well-being.

Our nation stands at a precipice, but it is not too late. The wisdom of public health experts holds the key. Their findings, like precious gems, can guide us away from this dire situation. Let us heed their counsel, weave policies with compassion, and save lives. In doing so, we not only protect our people but also fortify the very fabric of our society. May our collective resolve be unwavering, and may our actions echo through time—a testament to our commitment to a healthier, more resilient future.