Bangladesh continues to grapple with a severe dengue outbreak as nine more people died from the mosquito-borne disease in the 24 hours till Sunday morning, marking the second highest single-day death toll this year.

According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), the latest fatalities have pushed the death toll to 212 so far this year, underscoring the unrelenting threat posed by the Aedes mosquito even as the monsoon season begins to taper off.

During the same 24-hour period, 1,042 new dengue patients were admitted to hospitals across the country, taking the total number of reported cases to 49,907 since January. Health officials said the continued rise in infections, particularly in urban centres, reflects an alarming trend that demands intensified mosquito control and public awareness measures.

Of the nine newly reported deaths, seven occurred under the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), one under Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), and another in Chattogram division outside the city corporation areas.

The DGHS data show that dengue cases remain concentrated in Dhaka, which continues to be the epicentre of the outbreak. Within Dhaka city, 198 new cases were reported under DNCC and 121 under DSCC. Beyond the capital, 201 cases were reported from other districts in Dhaka division, 195 in Barishal, 104 in Chattogram, 72 in Khulna, 41 in Mymensingh, five in Sylhet, 23 in Rangpur, and 82 in Rajshahi division.

Currently, 2,439 dengue patients are undergoing treatment at hospitals nationwide.

Health experts warn that the persistent rise in infections and deaths points to deeper structural issues — including inadequate mosquito control, poor waste management, and insufficient community engagement. Despite repeated drives by city authorities, many neighbourhoods continue to report stagnant water and poor sanitation, both of which create ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes.

Bangladesh recorded its deadliest day of the year on 21 September, when the highest number of dengue deaths in a single day was reported.

Last year, the country witnessed its worst-ever dengue season on record, with 575 fatalities — a grim benchmark that health authorities fear could be approached again if preventive actions falter.

Public health officials have urged people to remain vigilant by keeping their surroundings clean, covering water containers, and seeking prompt medical attention if symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, or body aches develop.

As the country continues to battle the seasonal surge, experts stress that combating dengue requires coordinated efforts between authorities and citizens alike — before the outbreak worsens further.