Dengue and measles cases are rising in Paikgachha upazila of Khulna, raising fresh concerns over public health as 83 patients sought treatment at the upazila health complex in just 33 days.
According to hospital data, the cases were recorded between August 1 and September 2. While the growing number of dengue cases is causing concern, the detection of measles cases has also raised concerns among parents and health officials.
Hospital sources said 18 people were diagnosed with measles during the 33-day period. All of them required hospital admission, while two patients were referred to Khulna Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment after their conditions became more complicated.
During the same period, 65 dengue patients received treatment at the health complex.
Of them, 16 received initial treatment in the outpatient department and returned home, while 49 patients required hospital admission. According to the latest information, 16 dengue patients are currently receiving treatment at the hospital.
So far, five dengue patients have been transferred to Khulna or other advanced medical facilities after their conditions deteriorated.
Health officials say preventing dengue largely depends on everyday habits and eliminating breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes.
Residents have been advised to regularly remove stagnant water from around their homes, including water accumulated in flowerpots, discarded coconut shells, abandoned tyres and other containers.
Health workers have also recommended using mosquito nets during the daytime and applying mosquito repellents when necessary.
People experiencing symptoms such as fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes or joint pain have been urged to seek medical attention without delay.
As measles can spread rapidly, health workers have advised families to keep infected patients isolated from others at the earliest possible stage.
Parents have been urged to consult a doctor promptly if children develop fever, runny nose, cough or reddish rashes.
Health officials have also stressed the importance of ensuring that children receive all recommended vaccinations on time.
Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr Ahsanara Binte Ahmed urged residents not to panic but warned against taking the situation lightly.
“Neither measles nor dengue is something to panic about, but there is no room for negligence either. We must keep our surroundings clean and prevent water from accumulating to control dengue. We must ensure 100 percent vaccination coverage among children,” she said.
She also advised people not to take medicines on their own after purchasing them from pharmacies.
“If any symptoms appear, seeking a doctor's advice instead of taking medicine on your own is the wiser course of action,” she added.
Health officials and local residents say tackling the situation will require more than the efforts of government hospitals and medical professionals.
Local representatives, educational institutions and families all have a role to play in preventing further transmission.
Experts have particularly recommended cleaning the areas around homes at least once a week to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites.
The 83 cases recorded in 33 days are being viewed by local health-conscious residents and medical professionals as a warning that the situation could worsen without timely preventive action.
With dengue and measles cases emerging simultaneously, increased public awareness, vaccination and preventive measures will be crucial to protecting public health in Paikgachha.
