The government aims to tackle dengue more efficiently than previous measles outbreaks, Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Hossain announced on Tuesday (June 2).
Speaking at a Secretariat briefing, the minister outlined sweeping nationwide measures to prepare the medical system and control mosquito populations. Crucially for the public, private hospitals are now required to reserve 10% of their total beds specifically for dengue patients.
"These patients will not be charged doctor's visit fees; they will only bear the cost of medicines and food," the minister said. Additionally, the government has mandated up to an 80% discount on essential dengue diagnostic tests.
To ensure treatment readiness, hospitals have been instructed to secure adequate stocks of IV fluids and saline, with updated inventory reports required within three days.
Coordinated Mosquito Control Following a meeting with city corporation administrators, the ministry has launched a massive, coordinated cleanliness drive to destroy mosquito breeding grounds.
While only four dengue cases have been identified so far this season, the government's target is zero infections. Addressing public criticism regarding the mosquito control program, the minister confirmed that the insecticide imported from India has passed laboratory quality tests.
However, he acknowledged allegations that some field workers are diluting the spray with kerosene—an issue city corporations are currently monitoring and investigating.
Calling for a united front, the minister urged the public and corporate sectors to engage in the prevention efforts. "Like Corona and measles, dengue must be fought collectively," he said.
