Outbreak of dengue

We are concerned. While the government is often accused of underplaying the outbreak of the deadly disease, our medical experts too have not been able to come up with any clear picture of either diagnostic or preventive measures for the benefit of the public. We strongly feel that there should be a more concerted scientific approach in tackling the disease aimed at its ultimate eradication.

For long Bangladesh lived under the scourge of Malaria caused by yet another variety of mosquito, that claimed thousands of lives all over the country. Today we know of only a few isolated cases in years. And as Dengue too is a disease caused by mosquitoes we feel that the government should facilitate extensive research on the various aspects of the disease and find ways and means leading to its eradication. Collaborative research could be undertaken involving both national and international expertise including resources from within the country and other interested private and public bodies from similar climatic zones having similar vulnerability. As a first step towards that direction consideration could be given to research initiatives between scientists and medical experts of the public sector and ICDDR,B which has a longstanding credible record of public health covering both rural and urban population of the country. It also has the required infrastructure by way of diagnostic facilities and other related resources.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

In the meantime, government should ensure availability of proper, prompt and adequate medical services for treating Dengue patients at affordable costs. A public awareness campaign against the disease should also be geared up.