Prof Dr Md Abu Jafor, director general of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), said today that the nature of dengue has changed, making it more challenging to treat patients, and urged infected individuals to seek early treatment.
"The current strain of dengue is no longer manageable the way it used to be. Many patients are quickly becoming critically ill," he said while addressing a meeting at the DGHS conference room in Mohakhali, according to UNB.
At the event, the World Health Organisation's Bangladesh office handed over essential medical equipment to support dengue management efforts in the country.
"More patients are now showing up with severe symptoms that require close monitoring and intensive care. In this context, portable ultrasound and bedside hematocrit machines are crucial for quick diagnosis and effective treatment decisions," Prof Jafor said.
"These tools help accelerate clinical procedures and reduce complications by enabling faster diagnosis."
Dengue cases surge in Khulna
According to DGHS data, over 13,000 dengue cases have been reported across the country since the beginning of 2025 with 56 confirmed deaths.
Referring to ongoing outbreaks, Prof Jafor mentioned that although a recent spike in cases in Barguna has been brought under control, nationwide surveillance has been intensified.
"We are prepared on all fronts but raising public awareness is now more important than ever," he added, urging people to remain vigilant and seek medical attention without delay in the case of fever.
"Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent severe outcomes," he said.
At the end of the event, WHO Bangladesh handed over eight portable ultrasound machines, 21 bedside hematocrit machines, and 1,600 units of other dengue management-related medical supplies to the DGHS.
WHO representatives reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Bangladesh in its ongoing fight against dengue.
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