Dhaka, January 7, 2025 (BSS) – A concerning rise of infectious diseases has been reported recently, with 61 dengue patients admitted to various hospitals across Bangladesh in the last 24 hours. According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), these admissions reflect the country’s seasonal struggle against dengue fever.
Breaking down the statistics, the DGHS revealed the distribution of patients across divisions: 10 patients were hospitalized in Barishal, 13 in Chattogram, 10 each in Dhaka North and South city areas, one patient from Rajshahi, two from Mymensingh, and six from Khulna. This increase pushes the total number of dengue cases this year to 418, with three fatalities recorded so far. Comparatively, last year saw alarmingly high statistics, with over 101,000 total cases leading to 575 deaths.
Meanwhile, the situation is not exclusively limited to Bangladesh; India is also facing its own infectious disease challenges. The city of Nagpur has reported two suspected cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) among children aged 7 and 13 years. Shashikant Shambharkar, Deputy Director of Health, stated, "Two suspected HMPV patients have been found in Nagpur. One of these patients is 7 years old and the other is 13 years old." Both children were treated and discharged, with their records sent for additional examination to AIIMS Nagpur.
India has seen three confirmed cases of HMPV, with two cases previously identified in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and one case reported from Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed these cases as part of its surveillance efforts monitoring respiratory illnesses within the country.
Union Health Minister JP Nadda addressed the public's concerns, assuring there was no cause for alarm surrounding HMPV. Emphasizing it was not a new virus (having been identified since 2001), he stated, "There is no reason to worry… Health experts have clarified HMPV is not new and it spreads through the air, affecting people of all ages." Nadda's comments reflect his commitment to transparency and public health, stating the government is proactively monitoring the situation, assuring citizens of the readiness of health systems to tackle potential health challenges.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is being kept informed on the situation as well, with their input expected soon. Nadda reiterated the efficacy of the health systems and surveillance networks, maintaining vigilance to respond to any health threats. "Our health systems remain vigilant, ensuring the country is ready to respond swiftly to any health challenges,” he concluded.
The recent rise in dengue cases and suspected HMPV incidents highlight the continuing challenges posed by infectious diseases across South Asia. Ongoing efforts from health organizations and government bodies are focused on curbing these incidents and ensuring public awareness remains high.