Data-Driven Dengue Defense: DSCC Launches Tech-Based Aedes Larvae Survey
For the first time, the Dhaka South City Corporation has launched a scientifically conducted ‘pre-monsoon Aedes mosquito larvae survey’ under its own management to prevent dengue and chikungunya in the capital. Using modern technology and internationally recognized indices, the survey aims to identify potential dengue hotspots across Dhaka.
On 10 May, Sunday morning, the survey activities were inaugurated by Md. Abdus Salam at Buriganga Hall of Nagar Bhaban.
According to DSCC sources, a total of 2,250 houses have been selected as samples—30 from each of the corporation’s 75 wards. The survey, conducted through complete random sampling and scientific methods, will continue for 12 days.
A total of 36 field workers from DSCC and the Communicable Disease Control wing of the Directorate General of Health Services are participating in the survey. To ensure accuracy in data collection and analysis, the modern digital platform KoboToolbox is being used.
After completion, the results will be analyzed using the Breteau Index (BI), House Index (HI), Container Index (CI), and Pupa Index (PI). Officials say these indices will make it easier to determine areas with higher densities of Aedes mosquitoes and identify zones at risk of dengue transmission. This will enable early preventive measures and accurate identification of potential hotspots.
At the inauguration, DSCC Administrator Md. Abdus Salam said, “Dengue is now a major threat to public life. To protect citizens from this risk, we are conducting this survey for the first time under our own management with the goal of implementing effective and scientific measures. If the source of the disease can be accurately identified, it will be possible to eliminate it at the root before it spreads.”
Warning field-level workers, he added, “This is a matter of life and death. Submitting fabricated reports without visiting areas would be equivalent to playing with human lives. Negligence in assigned duties will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
After the inauguration, the administrator conducted an on-site inspection of the survey activities at the Central Veterinary Hospital at Fulbaria intersection. He expressed dissatisfaction after finding stagnant water, waste, and mosquito larvae within the hospital premises.
Immediate legal action was ordered against those responsible, and measures were taken to spray insecticides to destroy the larvae.
DSCC stated that during the survey, immediate action will be taken in any location where larvae or risk-prone environments are found, alongside continuing regular mosquito control operations.
DBTech/RRS/MUM/OR
