DHAKA, Mar 11, (V7N) – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today urged citizens to take preventive measures against dengue and chikungunya, announcing that a nationwide weekly cleanliness campaign will begin on March 14 to protect people from mosquito‑borne diseases.

In a special video message, the premier highlighted the growing threat of dengue and chikungunya, saying these diseases have become deadly and are no longer confined to the monsoon season. “According to experts, dengue and chikungunya infections occur due to the bite of the Aedes mosquito. So, it is urgent to take all kinds of preventive measures in advance,” he said.

Rahman stressed that Aedes mosquitoes breed in clean stagnant water, urging citizens to keep drains, ponds, rooftops, flower pots, tyres, buckets, and water tanks free from accumulated water. He advised households to clean their surroundings at least once a week.

The Prime Minister said awareness and cleanliness are the most effective ways to prevent dengue, adding that local administrations have taken initiatives to implement the campaign nationwide. He called on members of parliament and public representatives to lead weekly drives in their constituencies every Saturday.

Rahman emphasized the government’s health policy principle that “prevention is better than cure”, urging people to protect themselves and others. “Keep your home and surroundings clean. Protect yourself from Aedes or chikungunya. Protect yourselves and protect others,” he added.

END/AJ/RH/