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67 Chikungunya, 11 Zika Cases Reported in 2024: IEDCR

Staff Correspondent; Disease 2024-12-02, 6:01pm

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Bangladesh has recorded 67 cases of Chikungunya and 11 cases of Zika virus so far this year, according to the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR).


The data was disclosed by Dr. Halimur Rashid, Line Director of IEDCR, during a press briefing at Mohakhali on Monday. Dr. Abu Zafar, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), was also present at the event.

“Ninety percent of those infected with Zika show no symptoms, and the disease has a zero mortality rate. However, vigilance is essential as both Zika and Chikungunya are spread by Aedes mosquitoes,” said Dr. Zafar.

He urged the public to stay alert and maintain cleanliness at home, adding, “There is no significant cause for concern over Zika and Chikungunya, but awareness is key.”

Dr. Zafar highlighted the alarming rise in dengue cases and fatalities, which he attributed to inadequate attention and climate change. He noted that dengue patients often delay seeking hospital care until their condition worsens, leading to higher mortality rates.

Most dengue fatalities in Dhaka are among individuals aged 20 to 40, while in Chattogram, children are more vulnerable, he said. Dr. Zafar emphasized the importance of timely medical intervention to reduce the death toll.