In 2023, a report by Save the Children revealed that India was among the top 20 countries hit hardest by dengue fever. There were a staggering 5 million reported cases across these countries between January and November, marking a 30% increase from 2022 and 18% higher than 2019.
Around 5,500 deaths occurred due to dengue in these countries, including India, a 32% rise from 2022 and an 11% increase compared to 2019. However, the actual numbers could be higher as many cases go unreported. Bangladesh had the highest death toll, experiencing a severe outbreak with over 300,000 infected individuals and 1,598 deaths in 2023, mainly affecting children under 10 years old.
The report highlighted that extreme weather events in Asia contributed to the devastating rise in dengue cases. Yasir Arafat, a Senior Health Advisor at Save the Children, stressed the need for local plans involving communities to combat dengue. He emphasized the importance of controlling mosquitoes and government-wide efforts for diagnosis, treatment, and better funding to manage risks posed by extreme weather.
Dengue fever, transmitted through mosquito bites, can lead to flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, dengue hemorrhagic fever or shock syndrome, which can be fatal.
The increase in dengue cases was linked to the El Nino event and the climate crisis. The World Health Organization reported a significant surge in dengue cases from about half a million in 2000 to over 4.2 million in 2022.
