Dhaka: A sharp rise in dengue infections has pushed hospitals in Dhaka under severe pressure, with some patients being treated on floors and verandas after designated beds were filled.
145 patients in a 38-bed ward
At Mugda General Hospital, 145 dengue patients were receiving treatment in a ward designed for just 38 beds. The overcrowding has made it increasingly difficult for medical staff to monitor patients, administer medicines and respond to emergencies.
With every designated bed occupied, additional patients have been admitted on the floor and veranda, while some beds have reportedly been shared.
Hospital officials said patients are arriving daily from Dhaka as well as districts outside the capital. Doctors have called for additional beds and manpower as patient numbers continue to rise.
59,147 hospitalised this year
According to Bangladesh’s Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), 747 dengue patients were admitted to hospitals across the country in the 24 hours up to 8 am on September 18. No dengue deaths were reported during that period.
However, 79 deaths were recorded during the first 18 days of September. Since January, Bangladesh has recorded 59,147 dengue hospitalisations and 176 deaths, while 54,838 patients have been discharged.
The outbreak is not confined to Dhaka. Chattogram recorded 180 admissions in the latest 24-hour period, while Mymensingh reported 92 and Khulna 81.
Experts warn of tougher October
Entomologist Professor Kabirul Bashar has warned that the dengue situation could worsen in October. Experts have stressed that hospital treatment alone cannot contain the outbreak and called for stronger measures to eliminate Aedes mosquito breeding sites.
Authorities have instructed hospitals to expand bed capacity and strengthen treatment facilities at district and upazila levels.