Bangladesh's Dengue Death Toll Surpasses 300 Amid Rising Cases

Dhaka, 6 November 2025: The ongoing dengue outbreak in Bangladesh is escalating, with the number of infections and fatalities sharply increasing across the nation. In the latest 24 hours, five additional deaths were reported, bringing the total death toll for the year to 307, according to local media sources.

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) confirmed that most recent fatalities occurred in the Dhaka South City Corporation, where three deaths were recorded, while one each was registered in the Dhaka North City Corporation and Mymensingh Division. Meanwhile, 1,034 new patients were hospitalised with viral fever during this timeframe, raising the total number of dengue cases in 2025 to 76,026, as reported by the United News of Bangladesh.

Currently, 1,155 individuals are receiving treatment in Dhaka, with 3,331 patients admitted to various hospitals throughout Bangladesh. Gender distribution among this year's patients shows that 62.3 per cent are male and 37.7 per cent female. Among the fatalities, 52.8 per cent were male and 47.2 per cent female.

In comparison, the previous year saw a total of 575 dengue-related deaths. Director General of DGHS, Abu Jafor, noted on October 9 that while the number of cases in 2025 exceeds that of 2024, the mortality rate relative to the infections has decreased.

Speaking at a press briefing regarding the Typhoid Vaccination Campaign 2025, Abu Jafor stated, "This year, the number of dengue infections is higher than last year, but the death rate in proportion to infections is lower." He emphasised the importance of controlling mosquito populations and eliminating their breeding sites as a crucial strategy in combating the outbreak.

He urged the public to utilise mosquito nets and adopt protective measures, stressing that individual responsibility is vital in tackling the spread of dengue. "If we neglect these, it will be very difficult to eliminate dengue," he warned.

Abu Jafor also highlighted that data indicates over 50 per cent of dengue-related deaths occur on the first day of hospital admission, suggesting that many patients are seeking medical assistance too late. He called for early diagnosis, explaining that dengue can often be effectively managed at home when detected early. The DGHS director attributed the rising death rate to a lack of awareness, negligence, and delays in seeking treatment.

Dengue fever is a viral illness caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. This disease is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, predominantly within urban and semi-urban areas, as stated by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The prevention and control of dengue hinge on effective vector management. Although no specific treatment exists for the virus, timely detection and access to appropriate medical care can significantly reduce fatality rates associated with severe cases of dengue.