In a session focused on risk communication and early action for health related issues (Dengue, heatwaves and coldwaves), Ashraful Haque, of Start's Forewarn in Bangladesh presented the Dengue Anticipatory Action project in Bangladesh implemented by Forewarn, SEEP and START Network. 48 national and international partners contributed to this project through the information and analysis stage.
A large group of experts was put together to carry out the analysis of the dengue problem and work out potential solutions. The analysis focused on a historical review of dengue and climate data in parts of Dhaka city. A next step linked the identified risk factors with to be carried out interventions.
In a comparison between an intervention and non-intervention area, the benefits of the early action (45 days before the expected peak of dengue) showed through a reduced number of dengue cases in the intervention area.

Hilla Wessel

The first outbreak of dengue in Bangladesh was in late June of 2000. By understanding the epidemiology of the genotype of the disease, the report shows that dengue is not a natural vector to this country – the origination of the crises started from the transmission from the neighboring countries. Currently, more than 60% of the cases of Dengue in Bangladesh are from Dhaka division.

In 2019, Dhaka has experienced its maximum of 101354 dengue cases, 166 deaths and a total economic loss of 450.82 crores of BDT (equivalent to £410 million) from the affected families. In a case study conducted by FOREWARN, it was identified that the financial burden of the crises was a major issue faced by all respondents which varied a wide range from 0.18 GBP to 9000 GBP.

Hilla Wessel