Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has announced the launch of a weekly cleanliness drive across the country from March 14 to combat the risks of dengue and chikungunya.
In a video message to the nation on Wednesday, he announced the program and urged citizens to be proactive in preventive measures.
The Prime Minister said that dengue and chikungunya, which are spread by the bite of Aedes mosquitoes, have become a major threat to public health. According to experts, Aedes mosquitoes can breed only if there is standing water for three days, which is the main reason for the spread of the disease.
He said that although dengue outbreaks are usually more common during the monsoon season, now it is not limited to a specific season. Therefore, early prevention is the most effective way.
Calling for people not to allow water to accumulate in areas such as courtyards, roofs, drains, sewers, or abandoned tires and flower pots, the Prime Minister said it is important to clean the inside and outside of the house at least once a week.
The government hopes that regular cleaning campaigns will significantly reduce the risk of dengue and chikungunya in the upcoming season.