CHITTAGONG: Dengue has become a persistent public health challenge in Chittagong, Bangladesh, with 29,174 hospitalizations and 226 deaths recorded over the past five and a half years, according to health authorities.

Data shows repeated seasonal surges, with the worst outbreak in 2023 when more than 14,000 people were hospitalized and 107 died. Cases remain high in 2024 and 2025 despite fluctuations, while 197 infections and one death were reported in the first five months of this year.

Health officials warn that the upcoming monsoon season could trigger another rise in infections, as Aedes mosquitoes breed in stagnant water commonly found in urban areas.

Authorities say control efforts are ongoing, but residents report inconsistent mosquito spraying in many neighborhoods.