Initiatives being taken to develop dengue vaccine: BSMMU VC

Vice-Chancellor of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) Prof Sharfuddin Ahmed has said that initiatives are being taken to develop vaccine for dengue prevention.

He made the disclosure in a view exchange meeting with the media entitled ‘Seeking Anti-Dengue Social Movement’ held at BSMMU auditorium on Saturday (August 5).

BSMMU VC said, “We will take initiatives to research and develop dengue vaccine at BSMMU.”

Prof Sharfuddin Ahmed instructed the virology department of the university to start work quickly regarding the preparation of the vaccine.

He said, “This is the situation today because dengue is not dealt with throughout the year in our country. BSMMU is the best place to do any work and research in health care. Here we will build dengue research institute. Doctors of BSMMU will also work shoulder to shoulder with Dengue Prevention Committee.”

Sharfuddin Ahmed said, “The initiative to develop a social movement is good. That’s why we all have to go on the streets to make people aware. Everyone should know, now the type of dengue has changed. Earlier mosquitoes used to bite during the day, now they bite for 24 hours. Earlier, mosquito larvae were found in clean water, now It is found in dirty water as well.”

Urging everyone to be more aware, BSMMU said that water cannot be allowed to accumulate anywhere in the house, on the roof, in flower tubs. Commode should be covered after use. Dhaka North City Corporation will apply BTI to destroy Aedes mosquito larvae from tomorrow (Sunday). It is working very well in Singapore, hope it will work here for us too.