The big picture:
Bangladesh reported a record-breaking 59.2% influenza test positivity rate in July 2025, the highest since influenza surveillance began, sparking concern among health experts and public health authorities. The disclosure was made through an influenza alert issued by the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) in late August.
By the numbers:
- 2,355 patients with fever and respiratory symptoms were tested at 19 sentinel hospitals across the country.
- 1,453 tested positive for influenza.
- In July 2024, the positivity rate was just 21.5% — making this year's rate 2.75 times higher.
- The previous record high was 39.7% in August 2023.
- June 2025's rate was 29.2%, showing a sharp month-to-month rise.
Zoom out:
HBIS data of IEDCR shows that the average annual positivity rate (2016–2019) was 20% (range: 15.3% to 25.6%).
Pandemic-era years saw significant drops:
- 2020: 8.4%
- 2021: 9.7%
- 2022: 6.1%
- 2023: 18.4%
- 2024: Back to 20%
What they're saying:
- "The actual number of cases could be far higher. Many people delay treatment," said Dr. AFM Saidur Rahman.
- "Influenza is not the only virus circulating — RSV, adenoviruses, and coronaviruses are also being detected," said IEDCR's Principal Scientific Officer Ahmed Nawsher Alam.
- "The spike could be linked to new or more infectious variants," said Abu Muhammad Zakir Hussain, former director of Disease Control.
"There are four types of influenza - A, B, C and D. But we are not sure which one is responsible for the current outbreak," he added.
Between the lines:
- Bangladesh lacks reliable data on flu-related hospitalisations and deaths.
- Flu vaccination uptake is minimal and not part of the national immunisation programme.
- A single dose costs Tk 950 — mainly purchased by Hajj pilgrims.
- WHO recommends annual flu shots for high-risk groups.
Yes, but:
Despite global and local warnings, Bangladesh's vaccination rates remain negligible, leaving vulnerable groups- infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and the chronically ill- at risk of severe illness or death.
What's next:
IEDCR is urging flu shots for high-risk individuals (under 5, over 65, pregnant women, and those with comorbidities).
Public health experts call for:
- Stronger surveillance
- Broader vaccine access
- Public education on flu risks
- Preventive measures (masks, hygiene, avoiding crowds)
The bottom line:
Bangladesh is facing an unusually aggressive wave of influenza.
Infectious disease expert Dr Be-Nazir Ahmed, who was a member of the National Immunisation Technical Advisory Groups, said having inaccurate data might bring more danger ahead. He stressed the need to strengthen influenza surveillance, expand vaccine access and raise public awareness to reduce the seasonal toll of the virus in Bangladesh.
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