Dhaka – Bangladesh’s health ministry announced that the country is weighing clinical trials for a dengue vaccine after a sharp rise in cases and deaths. Since the start of the year, more than 90,350 people have been hospitalized with dengue fever and 281 have died, according to official data.

Rising Cases and Multiple Strains

In October alone, 10,736 patients were admitted to hospitals and 36 people lost their lives. The surge comes as the nation also battles a severe measles outbreak that has claimed the lives of over 1,100 children, stretching an already strained healthcare system.

State Minister for Health M.A. Muhit told reporters that all four dengue serotypes are now circulating in Bangladesh, increasing the likelihood of repeated infections because immunity to one serotype does not protect against the others.

Vaccine Trial Plans

“With all four dengue serotypes now circulating in Bangladesh, we are considering conducting vaccine trials in the country,” Muhit said. Any trial would require approval from the country’s regulatory authorities and could become part of a longer‑term strategy to control the disease.

Health experts warn that dengue is no longer confined to major cities and that mosquito‑spraying alone will not curb transmission unless breeding sites are eliminated. Recent heavy rains have created ideal conditions for mosquito breeding, raising concerns that the outbreak could worsen.

Historical Context

Bangladesh experienced its deadliest dengue outbreak on record in 2023, when more than 1,700 people died. The current surge underscores the urgent need for effective prevention measures, including potential vaccination.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging communities to eliminate standing water and take personal protective steps to reduce mosquito exposure.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.