Together Against Dengue -Mehedi Hasan

Dengue fever, once confined to urban areas, has now spread across the entire nation, transforming from a seasonal affliction to a year-round menace. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness and effective prevention strategies. The consequences of past efforts to control dengue are now painfully evident. As the saying goes, once dengue takes hold in a region, it cannot be eradicated, only suppressed. However, if suppression efforts are inadequate or poorly executed, the disease spreads even more rapidly. This is precisely what has occurred, with the Aedes mosquito continuing to transmit the dengue virus to humans.

The year 2023 marked the peak of this crisis, which persisted until May 2024. Although there was a brief respite in May and June, the situation worsened again from July onwards. According to the Department of Health, 32,082 people have been hospitalized due to dengue as of September this year, with 166 fatalities. A closer look at the data reveals that Dhaka South City Corporation is the hardest hit, with 6,150 cases reported in September 2024. Additionally, this area has the highest mortality rate, accounting for 52% of all dengue-related deaths. These statistics highlight the severe consequences of inadequate management and the critical need for effective intervention.

Despite numerous attempts by various individuals to provide scientific advice on mosquito control, many have faced repeated disappointments. Effective mosquito control cannot rely on a one-size-fits-all strategy or the imposition of a single decision. Instead, it requires a collaborative approach involving all stakeholders, guided by scientific principles. While many countries have successfully managed mosquito-borne diseases, it is crucial to analyze their methods and adapt them to our local context, with expert team approval. Without this tailored approach, efforts are likely to fail.

Addressing public health issues like dengue requires a thorough analysis of epidemiological data, ensuring accurate statistical information is presented. Expert panels play a vital role in correlating Aedes mosquito densities with dengue outbreaks. Only through rigorous, research-based data analysis can we determine the most effective mosquito control methods and develop appropriate dengue treatments. Political and administrative support is also essential to implementing these strategies successfully.

Our city councilors, as the elected representatives of the people, should prioritize the welfare of the common man. They entered public service with a commitment to protect the public, particularly by combating the Aedes mosquito that spreads dengue. However, the reality is harsh. International organizations such as the World Health Organization, UNICEF, UNDP, UNESCO, the Food and Agricultural Organization, and USAID, which collaborate with our government, have their own policies. To align our policies with theirs, it is crucial to ensure comprehensive research findings. For example, in order to effectively combat the spread of dengue, our city councilors may need to coordinate with international organizations to access funding for mosquito control programs and educational campaigns. They must also work closely with local health authorities to implement preventative measures such as fumigation and community clean-up initiatives.

Institutes like the National Institute of Prevention and Social Medicine (NIPSOM) and other public health education and research institutions must produce quality public health professionals through partnerships with renowned global universities. This will ensure the effective use of progressive innovations in our increasingly globalized world. Additionally, fostering relationships between domestic universities and research institutes can facilitate science-based decision-making. To achieve this, we need to expand research scope and budget, ensuring the efficient use of health sector funds. Currently, public health is neglected due to the inadequate dissemination and application of research findings. Proper knowledge practice is essential to addressing this issue.

Public health transcends the boundaries of medicine, embodying a holistic approach that recognizes health as a fundamental human right. It integrates various disciplines, such as sociology, which examines human living conditions, and ecology, which studies environmental factors. Entomology focuses on disease vectors, while microbiology delves into pathogens like viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Mycology, parasitology, population dynamics, anthropology, and biostatistics also play crucial roles. This interdisciplinary synergy with medicine is essential for ensuring the well-being of populations.

Moreover, the advancement of public health is intrinsically linked to the development of medical infrastructure and skilled personnel. The primary goal of the health sector is to maintain this continuum, ensuring that public health and medical services evolve in tandem to promote overall health and well-being. By understanding the intricacies of different pathogens and their interactions with human populations, microbiologists can develop effective prevention and treatment strategies. This collaboration between various scientific disciplines and medical professionals is crucial in tackling emerging infectious diseases and maintaining public health standards. Ultimately, the integration of medical infrastructure and skilled personnel is vital in promoting a healthier society and preventing the spread of diseases.

In the same way that a malnourished individual cannot develop a robust immune system, a person with asthma or pneumonia cannot achieve good health if they live in a polluted and unsanitary environment. Similarly, an area that serves as a breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes will inevitably lead to dengue infections. To combat this dire situation, collective action is essential. We must all work together to maintain cleanliness, eliminate mosquito breeding sites, and create a healthier environment. By doing so, we can protect ourselves and our communities from the threat of dengue. In conclusion, maintaining a clean and sanitary environment is crucial for preventing diseases and promoting overall health. By working together to eliminate pollution and mosquito breeding grounds, we can significantly reduce the risk of illnesses like dengue and ensure a healthier future for everyone. Let’s take collective responsibility and make our surroundings a safe and healthy place to live.