DSCC forms ward-based teams to combat dengue surge

Although both dengue infection and death rates are lower this year than in 2024, Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) convened an emergency meeting on Aedes mosquito control at Nagar Bhaban on Thursday, following a recent rise in cases.

The meeting, presided over by DSCC Administrator Md Mahmudul Hasan ndc, was attended by officials from the corporation's Health Department, Waste Management Department, and Regional Executive Offices.

It was decided that ward-based monitoring teams comprising local residents would be formed to ensure effective use of adulticide and larvicide in Aedes mosquito control. These teams will coordinate local drug application schedules, while the Waste Management Department and citizens will jointly work to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.

The meeting also resolved to identify area-specific hotspots and conduct targeted combing campaigns based on dengue incidence rates.

Addressing the meeting, Administrator Md Mahmudul Hasan said, "Just as the City Corporation has a duty to control Aedes mosquitoes, so do the citizens. Mobile courts will operate randomly at the field level, and alongside the corporation's efforts, public awareness must be strengthened."

Chief Executive Officer Md Zahirul Islam added that, in addition to larvicide application and cleanliness drives, DSCC has intensified public awareness campaigns. "Special messages are being broadcast in mosques and temples, public notices are being published in newspapers, and TVCs and social media posts are spreading preventive messages," he said.

He further announced that area-based special cleanliness and mosquito-control drives will be launched with renewed vigour. The meeting also reminded citizens that free dengue testing is available at three DSCC hospitals — Dhaka Metropolitan General Hospital, Dhaka Metropolitan Children's Hospital, and Nazira Bazar Maternity Centre — for anyone showing symptoms.