29 wards at very high risk as dengue could turn severe in Dhaka South
Graphics: Agamir Somoy
Authorities have expressed concern that the spread of dengue and chikungunya could take a severe turn in areas under the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC).
A joint survey by DSCC and the Communicable Disease Control (CDC) unit found on Wednesday that mosquito density in all 75 wards of DSCC exceeds the normal index. Of these, 29 wards have been classified as being at very high risk. Aedes mosquitoes were found to breed most frequently in regular residential houses and high-rise buildings rather than under construction or semi pucca buildings.
The 12-day survey was conducted from September 27 to October 8 by 36 field workers from DSCC and the Communicable Disease Control (CDC) unit of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). The Kobo Toolbox technology was used to ensure accurate data collection.
Using scientific and random sampling methods, the survey teams visited 2,250 houses, selecting 30 houses from each of DSCC’s 75 wards. After completing the survey, the collected data were analyzed to identify potential dengue hotspots.
The survey found Aedes mosquito larvae and pupae in 803 of the 2,250 houses inspected. Individual houses accounted for the largest share of breeding sources, with larvae found in 31.37 percent of them. Larvae were also found in 31.06 percent of high-rise buildings, 17.39 percent of semi pucca houses, 14.11 percent of vacant plots and 13.04 percent of buildings under construction.
Among the containers and locations where larvae were found, stagnant water on floors accounted for the highest share at 12.26 percent. Buckets accounted for 10.34 percent and plastic drums for 8.89 percent.
Based on larval density, DSCC classified 29 wards as very high risk, 28 as moderate risk and 18 as general risk areas. Following the survey findings, the city corporation has already launched special mosquito control drives in high-risk areas.
DSCC authorities said dengue cannot be completely eliminated through government or city corporation initiatives alone. Residents must keep their homes and workplaces clean and develop the habit of removing stagnant clean water at least once a week.
The corporation also expects strong public cooperation and an active role from the media in building a dengue free and livable city.
Meanwhile, DSCC Administrator Md Abdus Salam said mosquito control activities were being intensified by identifying high risk areas.
“According to the survey findings, mosquito control activities are being intensified. However, dengue cannot be controlled by spraying insecticides alone. Public awareness is essential,” he said.
