Staff Correspondent

Speakers at a roundtable discussion have alleged widespread discrimination in the application of insecticides to control dengue mosquitoes, claiming that underprivileged areas are neglected in anti-mosquito measures.

The discussion, titled "Dangers of Dengue and Ways to Prevent It," was held at the CIRDAP auditorium in the city on Sunday.

Bangladesh Private Medical College Association (BPMCA) organised the event aimed to raise public awareness and propose measures to curb the dengue outbreak.

Speakers at the event accused city corporation authorities of prioritizing elite neighborhoods inhabited by wealthy and influential individuals for mosquito control efforts, while neglecting slums and poorer areas. They also suggest to import vaccine immediately.

Experts stress the severity of dengue

Professor Dr. Md. Zafarullah Chowdhury, Vice President of the BMDC, the chief guest, highlighted the growing public health crisis posed by dengue, a mosquito-borne viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. He explained that dengue symptoms range from mild flu-like conditions to severe and potentially fatal cases such as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.

Professor Dr. Md. Zafarullah Chowdhury emphasized the importance of accurate diagnosis through clinical observation and laboratory tests. He also cited alarming statistics for 2024: 465 deaths and 90,798 reported cases of dengue as of November, according to the Health Services Department.

Preventive measures highlighted

Speakers stressed the urgent need for reducing mosquito breeding grounds and improving public awareness.

Bangladesh Health Education Accreditation Council Registar Professor Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Talukder, noted that proper waste disposal, regular cleaning of water containers, and maintaining effective drainage systems can reduce dengue risks by 50%. He also advised the use of mosquito nets and repellents, particularly for children.

Special guest BPMCA General Secretary Professor Dr. Md. Moazzem Hossen reiterated that public awareness and community participation are key to controlling the spread of dengue. He called for large-scale campaigns to educate the public and promote preventive actions such as eliminating stagnant water and using protective measures.

Week-long awareness drive announced

BPMCA President MA Mubin Khan announced a week-long program to increase public awareness including seminars, discussion meetings, leaflet distribution, free medical camps, and cleanliness drives in schools, colleges and markets.

He added that the BPMCA plans to collaborate with the government to sustain these efforts throughout the year, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated approach to combat dengue effectively.