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Bangladesh

Viral Fevers Spread Nationwide Amid Fears of Dengue and Chikungunya

Khabor Wala Desk

Published: 29th July 2025, 1:16 PM

Viral Fevers Spread Nationwide Amid Fears of Dengue and Chikungunya

With the arrival of the monsoon, viral fevers appear to be spreading rapidly across households in Bangladesh. Sudden shifts between intense heat and rain have triggered a wave of illness affecting people of all ages—from children to the elderly. Medical experts report that five to seven types of fever, including dengue, chikungunya, coronavirus, influenza, Zika, and other respiratory and waterborne infections, are currently circulating concurrently.

Situation on the Ground

A visit to the outpatient department of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital in Dhaka revealed large crowds of fever-stricken patients. Many could barely stand, and numerous parents brought in their sick children.

Case Snapshots:

Patient Name Age Duration of Fever Symptoms Reported
Shovon Mia 36 4 days High fever, severe body ache, vomiting, weakness
Manjur Hossain 50 6 days Persistent fever and fatigue
Zohra Begum’s son 13 7 days Prolonged fever, weakness

 

Expert Insights: Types of Fevers and Risk Factors

Emeritus Professor Dr ABM Abdullah, a renowned internal medicine specialist, states that viral fevers are predominant during this time of year. Dengue and chikungunya have reached alarming levels, while other common culprits include influenza, typhoid, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and sinusitis.

Vulnerable Groups:

  • Children
  • Elderly individuals
  • Patients with chronic respiratory or pre-existing illnesses

Symptom Differentiation: Fever Types

Disease Main Symptoms
Dengue High fever, bone/joint pain, pain behind the eyes, bleeding, possible breathlessness
Chikungunya Intense joint pain, high fever, no bleeding usually
Coronavirus Scratchy throat, dry cough, mild fever, loss of smell/taste in some cases
Influenza Body ache, general fatigue, light fever, less severe headache

 

Important: Despite overlapping symptoms, accurate diagnosis and medical consultation are essential.

Advice from Health Professionals

Dr Lelin Chowdhury warns against panic but urges people to consult qualified doctors promptly:

“Even minor fevers can lead to major complications if ignored. Proper treatment is critical.”

At a seminar at Bangladesh Medical University, Prof Dr Abed Hossain Khan noted that:

“Due to abrupt weather changes and viral outbreaks, people are becoming increasingly anxious. Many infections present similar symptoms, leading to confusion—even when test results return negative.”

Prevention Guidelines from Doctors

To stay safe from viral fevers and mosquito-borne diseases:

  • Use mosquito nets while sleeping
  • Remove stagnant water to prevent mosquito breeding
  • Maintain home cleanliness
  • Avoid large gatherings
  • Wear face masks in crowded areas
  • Wash hands frequently with soap

When to Seek Immediate Medical Help

Doctors strongly advise seeking urgent medical care and getting tested for dengue and chikungunya if a fever persists beyond three days. Special attention should be given to:

  • Diabetics
  • Pregnant women
  • Patients with liver or heart disease

Such individuals are at greater risk, and even mild fevers must be taken seriously.

In conclusion, as Bangladesh faces a rising wave of viral infections this monsoon, awareness, early diagnosis, and responsible health practices remain the most effective tools in protecting public health.

 

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