Bangladesh Dengue Outbreak: Fatalities Reach 269 in 2025 Amid Rising Cases

Current Situation: Rising Cases and Fatalities

Bangladesh continues to grapple with a severe dengue outbreak, with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reporting 983 new hospitalizations and six additional deaths in the 24 hours leading up to Monday morning. These latest figures push the total number of dengue-related fatalities in 2025 to 269. The cumulative number of dengue cases recorded across the country this year has now reached 66,423.

The mosquito-borne disease, typically prevalent during the monsoon season from June to September, has shown an unusual spread beyond this period, with October experiencing a significant surge in infections.

Statistical Overview and Monthly Trends

According to DGHS data, October has recorded 19,081 dengue cases so far, following 15,866 cases in September. The total deaths for October stand at 71, while September saw 76 fatalities. The number of patients currently undergoing treatment in hospitals nationwide is 2,740, with 993 of these patients admitted in Dhaka.

An analysis of the 2025 outbreak reveals that 61.8% of patients have been male and 38.2% female. Among the reported deaths, 53.2% were male and 46.8% were female. The outbreak in 2025 has already surpassed the total number of deaths recorded in 2019, which stood at 164 fatalities from 101,374 infections. For comparison, 2024 saw 575 deaths and 101,214 cases, while 2023 was the deadliest year on record with 1,705 deaths and 321,179 cases.

Public Health Response and Prevention Efforts

The DGHS, under the Ministry of Health, is the primary body providing these updates. On October 9, DGHS Director General Abu Jafor noted that while the number of dengue cases in 2025 is higher than the previous year, the death rate in proportion to infections is lower. He emphasized the critical role of individual responsibility in preventing the spread of the Aedes mosquito, which transmits the virus. This includes destroying mosquito breeding grounds and using mosquito nets.

Experts attribute the rising cases to stagnant water resulting from intermittent rainfall, creating favorable conditions for mosquito breeding. Director General Jafor also highlighted a concerning trend: 'over 50% of dengue deaths in hospitals are occurring on the very first day of admission,' suggesting that patients may be seeking care too late.

Geographic Impact

While specific daily figures for the 983 new hospitalizations were not broken down by region in the latest report, previous daily reports indicate that the Dhaka division, including Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), along with the Barishal division, have been significantly affected. The six new fatalities reported on Monday included four in DNCC, and one each in DSCC and Barishal Division.