Published: 03:08 AM, 03 September 2026
Hectic Initiatives Are Required to Tackle Dengue and Measles
Dengue and measles have become major public health concerns in Bangladesh. Every year, thousands of people suffer from these diseases, while children and vulnerable groups face the greatest risks. Although the government has taken several steps to control their spread, stronger and more coordinated initiatives are urgently needed to protect public health.
Dengue is mainly transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant water around homes, construction sites, drains, discarded containers, and other urban areas. During the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, the risk of dengue increases significantly. Dhaka and other major cities are particularly vulnerable because of rapid urbanization, poor drainage systems, construction activities, and inadequate waste management.
To control dengue, city corporations and local authorities must conduct regular mosquito-control operations throughout the year instead of taking action only after cases increase. Removing stagnant water should be a priority. Construction sites, abandoned buildings, rooftops, and residential areas should be inspected regularly. People must also be encouraged to keep their surroundings clean and use mosquito nets, repellents, and protective clothing.
Measles presents another serious challenge, especially for children who are not fully vaccinated. It is a highly contagious disease that can spread rapidly in crowded communities. Bangladesh has made significant progress in childhood immunization, but gaps in vaccination coverage can create opportunities for outbreaks. Therefore, vaccination campaigns should be strengthened, particularly in areas where children have missed routine doses.
The government should ensure that vaccines are available, safe, and accessible to everyone. Special vaccination drives can be organized in schools, rural communities, slums, and hard-to-reach areas. Health workers should also identify children who have missed vaccinations and encourage their parents or guardians to complete the recommended schedule.
Public awareness is equally important. Television, newspapers, social media, schools, and community organizations can educate people about the symptoms, prevention, and treatment of dengue and measles. People should be advised not to ignore warning signs such as persistent fever, severe weakness, breathing difficulties, dehydration, or unusual bleeding. Patients should seek medical attention promptly rather than relying on unproven treatments.
Hospitals and clinics must also be prepared to handle sudden increases in patients. Adequate medicines, diagnostic facilities, trained health workers, and hospital beds should be ensured before outbreaks become severe. Better disease surveillance can help authorities detect outbreaks early and respond quickly.
Dengue and measles cannot be tackled by the government alone. Citizens, health professionals, educational institutions, local authorities, and community organizations must work together. Bangladesh needs continuous mosquito-control programs, stronger vaccination efforts, better sanitation, effective disease surveillance, and widespread public awareness. Only through such urgent and sustained initiatives can the country reduce the threat of dengue and measles and ensure a healthier future for its people.
