Sharma Ji
Senior Member
- Messages
- 10,915
- Likes
- 529
- Nation
- Residence
- Axis Group
World Affairs
Saif
Senior Member
- Messages
- 17,685
- Likes
- 8,479
- Nation
- Residence
- Axis Group
Government advises Covid vaccine shots for high-risk groups amid resurgence
Amid growing concerns over the fresh spread of Covid-19, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has advised certain high-risk groups to receive vaccination. These include individuals with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and those who are likely to come into close contact w
Government advises Covid vaccine shots for high-risk groups amid resurgence
Published :
Jun 11, 2025 19:51
Updated :
Jun 11, 2025 19:51
Amid growing concerns over the fresh spread of Covid-19, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has advised certain high-risk groups to receive vaccination.
These include individuals with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and those who are likely to come into close contact with Covid-19 patients, reports bdnews24.com.
On Wednesday, DGHS Director General Md Abu Jafor said the agency currently has a stock of 1.71 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine, which will be used in the imminent vaccination campaign.
“Those who are unvaccinated and are in regular contact with others, including immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women, should take the vaccine,” he said.
“Alongside them, those who have previously been vaccinated but are over 60 years old, have comorbidities, or are at high risk due to low immunity, should receive a booster dose if six months have passed since their last dose.”
Asked if previously vaccinated individuals can still receive the vaccine at designated centres, Jafor said: “Covid-19 vaccination is still in progress. Anyone eligible can receive it by visiting the designated centres.”
Addressing concerns about the efficacy of the current vaccine stock, Halimur Rashid, director of the DGHS Communicable Disease Control segment, referred to guidelines from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
He said while the most recent 2024–2025 vaccines specifically target the omicron variant, the vaccines available in Bangladesh remain effective.
“Our vaccines are from earlier batches,” Rashid said. “According to the World Health Organization (WHO), if the latest vaccines are not available in a country, previous ones can still help reduce the severity of illness.
“WHO recommends using whatever vaccines are available. We haven’t yet initiated new procurement, but we plan to do so soon.”
On the availability of Covid-19 testing at hospitals, Jafor noted that the general mass does not require it.
“Only patients showing symptoms or specific indicators should be tested. We will make testing available at all hospitals where needed,” he said.
The DGHS plans to distribute RT-PCR kits to hospitals starting Thursday.
“We have a distribution list and know exactly how many kits each hospital needs. There’s been a slight delay due to the Eid holidays,” he added.
He also said the health directorate has received 28,000 rapid test kits and expects an additional 10,000 RT-PCR kits to arrive on Wednesday for distribution across public hospitals over the following few days.
On Wednesday, Abu Hussain Md Moinul Ahsan, DGHS director of hospitals and clinics, said all district-level government hospitals are preparing Covid-dedicated beds in light of the recent uptick of cases.
Several hospitals, including the DNCC Dedicated Covid-19 Hospital, Mugda Medical College and Hospital, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, and Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, have already set up facilities to treat Covid-19 patients.
“We’re working diligently, and hope that by Saturday, all district-level public hospitals will have beds ready—whether or not there are patients at the moment.
“We want to ensure that no patient is ever turned away from a government hospital without receiving treatment. That’s the assurance we want to give the public,” he said.
This year, Bangladesh has detected 215 Covid-19 cases—57 of them within the first 10 days of June. On Tuesday alone, 13 new infections were recorded over a span of 24 hours.
The first virus-caused fatality in one and a half years was registered on Thursday.
Since the initial outbreak in 2020, over 15.7 million samples have been tested in Bangladesh, resulting in more than 2.05 million confirmed cases and 29,500 deaths.
The virus claimed 7,559 lives in 2020, the first year of the pandemic. In 2021, the death toll peaked at 20,513. It dropped to 1,368 in 2022 and 37 in 2023, while no deaths were reported in 2024.
Following the surge of new sub-variants in India and neighbouring countries—as well as fears of global spread—the DGHS has issued renewed health advisories.
On Monday, the Communicable Disease Control (CDC) under the DGHS advised against non-essential travel to India and other affected countries. It also instructed authorities to ramp up health screening and monitoring at all land and air entry points.
Published :
Jun 11, 2025 19:51
Updated :
Jun 11, 2025 19:51
Amid growing concerns over the fresh spread of Covid-19, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has advised certain high-risk groups to receive vaccination.
These include individuals with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and those who are likely to come into close contact with Covid-19 patients, reports bdnews24.com.
On Wednesday, DGHS Director General Md Abu Jafor said the agency currently has a stock of 1.71 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine, which will be used in the imminent vaccination campaign.
“Those who are unvaccinated and are in regular contact with others, including immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women, should take the vaccine,” he said.
“Alongside them, those who have previously been vaccinated but are over 60 years old, have comorbidities, or are at high risk due to low immunity, should receive a booster dose if six months have passed since their last dose.”
Asked if previously vaccinated individuals can still receive the vaccine at designated centres, Jafor said: “Covid-19 vaccination is still in progress. Anyone eligible can receive it by visiting the designated centres.”
Addressing concerns about the efficacy of the current vaccine stock, Halimur Rashid, director of the DGHS Communicable Disease Control segment, referred to guidelines from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
He said while the most recent 2024–2025 vaccines specifically target the omicron variant, the vaccines available in Bangladesh remain effective.
“Our vaccines are from earlier batches,” Rashid said. “According to the World Health Organization (WHO), if the latest vaccines are not available in a country, previous ones can still help reduce the severity of illness.
“WHO recommends using whatever vaccines are available. We haven’t yet initiated new procurement, but we plan to do so soon.”
On the availability of Covid-19 testing at hospitals, Jafor noted that the general mass does not require it.
“Only patients showing symptoms or specific indicators should be tested. We will make testing available at all hospitals where needed,” he said.
The DGHS plans to distribute RT-PCR kits to hospitals starting Thursday.
“We have a distribution list and know exactly how many kits each hospital needs. There’s been a slight delay due to the Eid holidays,” he added.
He also said the health directorate has received 28,000 rapid test kits and expects an additional 10,000 RT-PCR kits to arrive on Wednesday for distribution across public hospitals over the following few days.
On Wednesday, Abu Hussain Md Moinul Ahsan, DGHS director of hospitals and clinics, said all district-level government hospitals are preparing Covid-dedicated beds in light of the recent uptick of cases.
Several hospitals, including the DNCC Dedicated Covid-19 Hospital, Mugda Medical College and Hospital, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, and Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, have already set up facilities to treat Covid-19 patients.
“We’re working diligently, and hope that by Saturday, all district-level public hospitals will have beds ready—whether or not there are patients at the moment.
“We want to ensure that no patient is ever turned away from a government hospital without receiving treatment. That’s the assurance we want to give the public,” he said.
This year, Bangladesh has detected 215 Covid-19 cases—57 of them within the first 10 days of June. On Tuesday alone, 13 new infections were recorded over a span of 24 hours.
The first virus-caused fatality in one and a half years was registered on Thursday.
Since the initial outbreak in 2020, over 15.7 million samples have been tested in Bangladesh, resulting in more than 2.05 million confirmed cases and 29,500 deaths.
The virus claimed 7,559 lives in 2020, the first year of the pandemic. In 2021, the death toll peaked at 20,513. It dropped to 1,368 in 2022 and 37 in 2023, while no deaths were reported in 2024.
Following the surge of new sub-variants in India and neighbouring countries—as well as fears of global spread—the DGHS has issued renewed health advisories.
On Monday, the Communicable Disease Control (CDC) under the DGHS advised against non-essential travel to India and other affected countries. It also instructed authorities to ramp up health screening and monitoring at all land and air entry points.
Saif
Senior Member
- Messages
- 17,685
- Likes
- 8,479
- Nation
- Residence
- Axis Group
10 more Covid-19 cases reported in country
The country reported 10 more Covid-19 cases out of 107 in last 24 hours till this morning. With the new numbers, the country’s total Covid-19 caseload rose to 20,51,770, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). It said that two people have recovered from COVID-19 in t
10 more Covid-19 cases reported in country
FE Online Desk
Published :
Jun 11, 2025 19:39
Updated :
Jun 11, 2025 19:39
The country reported 10 more Covid-19 cases out of 107 in last 24 hours till this morning.
With the new numbers, the country’s total Covid-19 caseload rose to 20,51,770, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
It said that two people have recovered from COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. As a result, the number of recovery has now reached 20,19,380. However, no one has died from COVID-19 during this period.
The official death toll from the disease remained unchanged at 29,500, according to BSS report.
The first case of corona virus was detected in the country on March 8, 2020. Ten days later, on March 18 in the same year, the first person died from the virus in the country.
FE Online Desk
Published :
Jun 11, 2025 19:39
Updated :
Jun 11, 2025 19:39
The country reported 10 more Covid-19 cases out of 107 in last 24 hours till this morning.
With the new numbers, the country’s total Covid-19 caseload rose to 20,51,770, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
It said that two people have recovered from COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. As a result, the number of recovery has now reached 20,19,380. However, no one has died from COVID-19 during this period.
The official death toll from the disease remained unchanged at 29,500, according to BSS report.
The first case of corona virus was detected in the country on March 8, 2020. Ten days later, on March 18 in the same year, the first person died from the virus in the country.
Saif
Senior Member
- Messages
- 17,685
- Likes
- 8,479
- Nation
- Residence
- Axis Group
Is Bangladesh prepared for another COVID wave?
After three gruelling years of the COVID-19 pandemic, which claimed over seven million lives globally and caused unprecedented disruption to international trade, it was widely believed that the pandemic had gone, thanks to mass vaccination campaigns and growing natural immunity. However, far from d
Is Bangladesh prepared for another COVID wave?
Atiqul Kabir Tuhin
Published :
Jun 12, 2025 00:18
Updated :
Jun 12, 2025 00:18
After three gruelling years of the COVID-19 pandemic, which claimed over seven million lives globally and caused unprecedented disruption to international trade, it was widely believed that the pandemic had gone, thanks to mass vaccination campaigns and growing natural immunity. However, far from disappearing, SARS-CoV-2 has once again mutated, this time into a new variant known as NB.1.8.1. This strain is driving a rise in infections across China, the United States, India, and several other countries, sparking renewed public concern. While the current level of infections and severity is not yet a cause for widespread alarm, the resurgence serves as a stark reminder that the virus continues to evolve and spread. It warrants continued vigilance and proactive public health measures to prevent a resurgence of the deadly virus.
The symptoms associated with NB.1.8.1 closely mirror those of earlier variants, presenting a range of common manifestations such as fever, cough, chills, nausea, shortness of breath, congestion, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell. While initial observations from countries where cases have been reported suggest that this variant does not appear to cause more severe disease, its genetic makeup is a cause for concern. Specifically, NB.1.8.1 is equipped with changes that allow it to infect cells more efficiently, implying a higher potential for easier and wider transmission among people.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified NB.1.8.1 as a "variant under monitoring" due to its mutations and international spread. Although it has been identified in 22 countries, no travel restrictions have been imposed by any country. On June 4, the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control And Research (IEDCR) of the Ministry of Health warned of a potential risk of COVID-19 spreading to Bangladesh, as cases continue to rise in neighbouring countries. Health Ministry has advised citizens to avoid travelling to India and other affected countries unless absolutely essential. Indian media reports that India recently recorded over 6,000 new COVID-19 cases within a 24-hour period, with a total of 65 COVID-related deaths reported so far in 2025. In a similar trend, Thailand confirmed 65,880 new cases and three fatalities in the last week of May. Other Asian countries-such as Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia-have also seen a significant surge in COVID-19 cases.
The outbreak has been on the rise in Bangladesh since May. Of late, researchers at the ICDDR,B have also identified two new SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants, XFG and XFC, in Bangladesh, with health authorities noting a gradual rise in COVID-19 positivity in recent months. These subvariants are descendants of the JN.1 lineage and were first identified at Chattogram Medical College Hospital in April 2025. Although the overall number of infections remains low, the ICDDR,B considers the recent increase significant, given the near-zero infection rate earlier this year. In recent months, urban areas have seen a sharp increase in flu-like symptoms and respiratory illnesses. Experts warn that low testing rates may be obscuring the true extent of community transmission and have called for strengthened surveillance and monitoring.
The world has largely adapted to living with the virus, but past experience with the pandemic has shown that complacency can be costly. Effective preparedness, including, mask-wearing, timely testing, isolation, robust healthcare systems, vaccination and public cooperation, are essential to mitigating the impact of the potential surge due to the new variants. The government is ratcheting up public awareness campaigns aimed at curbing the spread of the virus. Eid-returnee passengers as well as metro rail passengers have been asked to wear masks. Sick and elderly people have been advised to avoid crowded areas. And the Education Ministry has issued directives to educational institutions, emphasising the need for students, teachers, and guardians to adhere strictly to health guidelines.
While these efforts are necessary, experience has repeatedly shown that awareness campaigns alone are often insufficient once the infection has begun to spread widely within the community. A more comprehensive and proactive approach like a renewed vaccination campaign may be necessary to contain the resurgence of the virus effectively. The WHO says that existing COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective in preventing both symptomatic and severe illness caused by this variant as NB.1.8.1 is a part of the Omicron family. Therefore, individuals who have received initial doses are advised to complete their vaccination series with second, third, and even fourth doses as recommended. Specifically, vaccination is recommended for individuals over 60, those over 18 with weak immune systems, pregnant women, healthcare workers, and people suffering from various pre-existing conditions. Medical experts underscore the critical importance of vaccination for the elderly and those with chronic diseases as the outbreak intensifies.
However, due to the currently low perceived risk of COVID-19, public interest in vaccination remains alarmingly low. Between January 1 and March 8, only 43 individuals received a COVID-19 vaccine-most of them travellers who required it for international trips. While raising public awareness about the importance of vaccination is critical, the government must also ensure the availability of test kits, medical equipment, and vaccines. Reports indicate that COVID-19 test kits are currently unavailable in government hospitals. Meanwhile, according to the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), 3.1 million vaccine doses are in stock, with 1.7 million set to expire by August. There is also a shortage of test kits. Taken together these issues point to a concerning lack of preparedness.
The emergence of NB.1.8.1 and other Omicron subvariants serves as a reminder that COVID-19 has not vanished; it has just evolved. While the world may be better prepared today than it was in 2020, the fight against the virus is far from over. Without a proactive public health response, including stronger vaccination efforts and improved healthcare readiness, the country risks repeating past mistakes.
Atiqul Kabir Tuhin
Published :
Jun 12, 2025 00:18
Updated :
Jun 12, 2025 00:18
After three gruelling years of the COVID-19 pandemic, which claimed over seven million lives globally and caused unprecedented disruption to international trade, it was widely believed that the pandemic had gone, thanks to mass vaccination campaigns and growing natural immunity. However, far from disappearing, SARS-CoV-2 has once again mutated, this time into a new variant known as NB.1.8.1. This strain is driving a rise in infections across China, the United States, India, and several other countries, sparking renewed public concern. While the current level of infections and severity is not yet a cause for widespread alarm, the resurgence serves as a stark reminder that the virus continues to evolve and spread. It warrants continued vigilance and proactive public health measures to prevent a resurgence of the deadly virus.
The symptoms associated with NB.1.8.1 closely mirror those of earlier variants, presenting a range of common manifestations such as fever, cough, chills, nausea, shortness of breath, congestion, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell. While initial observations from countries where cases have been reported suggest that this variant does not appear to cause more severe disease, its genetic makeup is a cause for concern. Specifically, NB.1.8.1 is equipped with changes that allow it to infect cells more efficiently, implying a higher potential for easier and wider transmission among people.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified NB.1.8.1 as a "variant under monitoring" due to its mutations and international spread. Although it has been identified in 22 countries, no travel restrictions have been imposed by any country. On June 4, the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control And Research (IEDCR) of the Ministry of Health warned of a potential risk of COVID-19 spreading to Bangladesh, as cases continue to rise in neighbouring countries. Health Ministry has advised citizens to avoid travelling to India and other affected countries unless absolutely essential. Indian media reports that India recently recorded over 6,000 new COVID-19 cases within a 24-hour period, with a total of 65 COVID-related deaths reported so far in 2025. In a similar trend, Thailand confirmed 65,880 new cases and three fatalities in the last week of May. Other Asian countries-such as Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia-have also seen a significant surge in COVID-19 cases.
The outbreak has been on the rise in Bangladesh since May. Of late, researchers at the ICDDR,B have also identified two new SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants, XFG and XFC, in Bangladesh, with health authorities noting a gradual rise in COVID-19 positivity in recent months. These subvariants are descendants of the JN.1 lineage and were first identified at Chattogram Medical College Hospital in April 2025. Although the overall number of infections remains low, the ICDDR,B considers the recent increase significant, given the near-zero infection rate earlier this year. In recent months, urban areas have seen a sharp increase in flu-like symptoms and respiratory illnesses. Experts warn that low testing rates may be obscuring the true extent of community transmission and have called for strengthened surveillance and monitoring.
The world has largely adapted to living with the virus, but past experience with the pandemic has shown that complacency can be costly. Effective preparedness, including, mask-wearing, timely testing, isolation, robust healthcare systems, vaccination and public cooperation, are essential to mitigating the impact of the potential surge due to the new variants. The government is ratcheting up public awareness campaigns aimed at curbing the spread of the virus. Eid-returnee passengers as well as metro rail passengers have been asked to wear masks. Sick and elderly people have been advised to avoid crowded areas. And the Education Ministry has issued directives to educational institutions, emphasising the need for students, teachers, and guardians to adhere strictly to health guidelines.
While these efforts are necessary, experience has repeatedly shown that awareness campaigns alone are often insufficient once the infection has begun to spread widely within the community. A more comprehensive and proactive approach like a renewed vaccination campaign may be necessary to contain the resurgence of the virus effectively. The WHO says that existing COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective in preventing both symptomatic and severe illness caused by this variant as NB.1.8.1 is a part of the Omicron family. Therefore, individuals who have received initial doses are advised to complete their vaccination series with second, third, and even fourth doses as recommended. Specifically, vaccination is recommended for individuals over 60, those over 18 with weak immune systems, pregnant women, healthcare workers, and people suffering from various pre-existing conditions. Medical experts underscore the critical importance of vaccination for the elderly and those with chronic diseases as the outbreak intensifies.
However, due to the currently low perceived risk of COVID-19, public interest in vaccination remains alarmingly low. Between January 1 and March 8, only 43 individuals received a COVID-19 vaccine-most of them travellers who required it for international trips. While raising public awareness about the importance of vaccination is critical, the government must also ensure the availability of test kits, medical equipment, and vaccines. Reports indicate that COVID-19 test kits are currently unavailable in government hospitals. Meanwhile, according to the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), 3.1 million vaccine doses are in stock, with 1.7 million set to expire by August. There is also a shortage of test kits. Taken together these issues point to a concerning lack of preparedness.
The emergence of NB.1.8.1 and other Omicron subvariants serves as a reminder that COVID-19 has not vanished; it has just evolved. While the world may be better prepared today than it was in 2020, the fight against the virus is far from over. Without a proactive public health response, including stronger vaccination efforts and improved healthcare readiness, the country risks repeating past mistakes.
Saif
Senior Member
- Messages
- 17,685
- Likes
- 8,479
- Nation
- Residence
- Axis Group
DGHS issues 11-point guideline to curb coronavirus transmission
With coronavirus cases rising globally and a new sub-variant spreading locally, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued an 11-point directive to prevent further transmission. Director general of DGHS Md Abu Jafar outlined an 11-point directive at a press conference...
en.prothomalo.com
DGHS issues 11-point guideline to curb coronavirus transmission
Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 11 Jun 2025, 16: 34
With coronavirus cases rising globally and a new sub-variant spreading locally, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued an 11-point directive to prevent further transmission.
Director general of DGHS Md Abu Jafar outlined an 11-point directive at a press conference addressing the current coronavirus situation in the country on Wednesday afternoon.
He stated that transmission rates have increased and several new sub-variants have been identified. To curb the spread via international travellers, relevant authorities have been instructed to enhance monitoring and enforce health protocols at all land, sea, and airport IHR desks nationwide.
To raise health awareness, the Directorate General of Health Services has issued guidelines for the public to prevent coronavirus transmission:
1. Avoid gatherings whenever possible; if attending, wear a mask.
2. Use a mask to protect yourself from respiratory illnesses.
3. Cover your nose and mouth with your elbow or a tissue when sneezing or coughing.
4. Dispose of used tissues immediately in a covered bin.
5. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer for at least 20 seconds.
6. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands.
7. Keep a minimum distance of three feet from infected individuals.
Guidelines for suspected patients:
1. Stay at home until fully recovered if you have fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.
2. Instruct the patient to wear a mask to cover their nose and mouth.
3. Caregivers should also wear masks as a precaution.
4. If necessary, contact the nearest hospital or call the IEDCR helpline at 01401-196293 or the Health Helpline at 16263.
The preparations of various government ministries and agencies, including the health and family welfare ministry, have also been highlighted. It states that preparations are ongoing through coordination among relevant government bodies for all Covid-19 related matters, including coronavirus testing (RT-PCR, Rapid Antigen Test), vaccination, treatment management guidelines, medicines, medical-grade oxygen, essential equipment (such as High-Flow Nasal Cannula and ventilators), ICU and HDU facilities, designated Covid-dedicated hospitals, and necessary protective gear for healthcare workers (KN95 masks, PPE, face shields, etc.).
Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 11 Jun 2025, 16: 34
With coronavirus cases rising globally and a new sub-variant spreading locally, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued an 11-point directive to prevent further transmission.
Director general of DGHS Md Abu Jafar outlined an 11-point directive at a press conference addressing the current coronavirus situation in the country on Wednesday afternoon.
He stated that transmission rates have increased and several new sub-variants have been identified. To curb the spread via international travellers, relevant authorities have been instructed to enhance monitoring and enforce health protocols at all land, sea, and airport IHR desks nationwide.
To raise health awareness, the Directorate General of Health Services has issued guidelines for the public to prevent coronavirus transmission:
1. Avoid gatherings whenever possible; if attending, wear a mask.
2. Use a mask to protect yourself from respiratory illnesses.
3. Cover your nose and mouth with your elbow or a tissue when sneezing or coughing.
4. Dispose of used tissues immediately in a covered bin.
5. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer for at least 20 seconds.
6. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands.
7. Keep a minimum distance of three feet from infected individuals.
Guidelines for suspected patients:
1. Stay at home until fully recovered if you have fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.
2. Instruct the patient to wear a mask to cover their nose and mouth.
3. Caregivers should also wear masks as a precaution.
4. If necessary, contact the nearest hospital or call the IEDCR helpline at 01401-196293 or the Health Helpline at 16263.
The preparations of various government ministries and agencies, including the health and family welfare ministry, have also been highlighted. It states that preparations are ongoing through coordination among relevant government bodies for all Covid-19 related matters, including coronavirus testing (RT-PCR, Rapid Antigen Test), vaccination, treatment management guidelines, medicines, medical-grade oxygen, essential equipment (such as High-Flow Nasal Cannula and ventilators), ICU and HDU facilities, designated Covid-dedicated hospitals, and necessary protective gear for healthcare workers (KN95 masks, PPE, face shields, etc.).
Saif
Senior Member
- Messages
- 17,685
- Likes
- 8,479
- Nation
- Residence
- Axis Group
Rising COVID cases in Asia should serve as a warning for us
Bangladesh health authorities must prepare accordingly
Rising COVID cases in Asia should serve as a warning for us
Bangladesh health authorities must prepare accordingly
VISUAL: STAR
Amid a rise in infections caused by new sub-variants of the coronavirus in some neighbouring countries, Bangladesh's health ministry has advised citizens to refrain from travelling to India and other affected nations unless absolutely necessary. According to Indian media, the country recently reported over 6,000 Covid cases within a 24-hour period. So far in 2025, India has reported 65 Covid-related deaths. Similarly, in the last week of May, Thailand recorded 65,880 new Covid cases and three fatalities. The number of cases in other Asian countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia, has also risen significantly.
In Bangladesh, although no significant surge in hospital admissions has been reported, health authorities have noted a slight uptick in flu-like symptoms and respiratory illnesses in urban areas. Experts have cautioned that low testing rates may be masking the true extent of community transmission, calling for enhanced monitoring.
With the World Health Organization announcing on May 28 that global SARS-CoV-2 activity has been increasing since February—reaching a test positivity rate of 11 percent, a level not seen since July 2024—and with cases rising in neighbouring regions, the time for caution has once again arrived. Although the world has somewhat adjusted to living with the virus, if the previous pandemic years have taught us anything, it is that overcoming Covid becomes easier with better preparedness.
Raising awareness, therefore, is key, but it must be matched by swift and coordinated action from the authorities. The government must ensure an adequate supply of test kits, medical equipment, and vaccines. Reportedly, Covid test kits are currently unavailable in government hospitals. According to sources at the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), there are currently 3.1 million vaccine doses in stock, of which 1.7 million will expire by August. All this suggests that our Covid preparedness is once again at a poor level.
Now that we know so much about the virus, there is really no excuse for failing to prevent another surge in Covid cases and fatalities. The government must ensure that adequate supplies are available at all public hospitals and health facilities. In addition, surveillance and risk communication activities must be strengthened at the International Health Regulations (IHR) desks in all land, sea, and airports for incoming travellers. The use of thermal scanners or digital handheld thermometers with non-contact techniques to measure body temperature must be ensured at all entry points, along with sufficient provision of masks, gloves, and personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers.
The DGHS has issued a set of guidelines to reduce the risk of contracting and transmitting the disease. Meanwhile, Dhaka metro rail authorities and the railway ministry have urged travellers to wear masks and abide by health guidelines. These infection prevention guidelines should continue to be disseminated to raise public awareness and help prevent the spread of the virus.
Bangladesh health authorities must prepare accordingly
VISUAL: STAR
Amid a rise in infections caused by new sub-variants of the coronavirus in some neighbouring countries, Bangladesh's health ministry has advised citizens to refrain from travelling to India and other affected nations unless absolutely necessary. According to Indian media, the country recently reported over 6,000 Covid cases within a 24-hour period. So far in 2025, India has reported 65 Covid-related deaths. Similarly, in the last week of May, Thailand recorded 65,880 new Covid cases and three fatalities. The number of cases in other Asian countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia, has also risen significantly.
In Bangladesh, although no significant surge in hospital admissions has been reported, health authorities have noted a slight uptick in flu-like symptoms and respiratory illnesses in urban areas. Experts have cautioned that low testing rates may be masking the true extent of community transmission, calling for enhanced monitoring.
With the World Health Organization announcing on May 28 that global SARS-CoV-2 activity has been increasing since February—reaching a test positivity rate of 11 percent, a level not seen since July 2024—and with cases rising in neighbouring regions, the time for caution has once again arrived. Although the world has somewhat adjusted to living with the virus, if the previous pandemic years have taught us anything, it is that overcoming Covid becomes easier with better preparedness.
Raising awareness, therefore, is key, but it must be matched by swift and coordinated action from the authorities. The government must ensure an adequate supply of test kits, medical equipment, and vaccines. Reportedly, Covid test kits are currently unavailable in government hospitals. According to sources at the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), there are currently 3.1 million vaccine doses in stock, of which 1.7 million will expire by August. All this suggests that our Covid preparedness is once again at a poor level.
Now that we know so much about the virus, there is really no excuse for failing to prevent another surge in Covid cases and fatalities. The government must ensure that adequate supplies are available at all public hospitals and health facilities. In addition, surveillance and risk communication activities must be strengthened at the International Health Regulations (IHR) desks in all land, sea, and airports for incoming travellers. The use of thermal scanners or digital handheld thermometers with non-contact techniques to measure body temperature must be ensured at all entry points, along with sufficient provision of masks, gloves, and personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers.
The DGHS has issued a set of guidelines to reduce the risk of contracting and transmitting the disease. Meanwhile, Dhaka metro rail authorities and the railway ministry have urged travellers to wear masks and abide by health guidelines. These infection prevention guidelines should continue to be disseminated to raise public awareness and help prevent the spread of the virus.
Saif
Senior Member
- Messages
- 17,685
- Likes
- 8,479
- Nation
- Residence
- Axis Group
Saif
Senior Member
- Messages
- 17,685
- Likes
- 8,479
- Nation
- Residence
- Axis Group
15 new Covid-19 cases reported in Bangladesh
Bangladesh has confirmed 15 new Covid-19 cases over the past day, bringing the total number of infections this year to 240. Of the 240 cases this year, 82 were detected in the first 12 days of June alone, indicating a resurgence of the virus in the country, reports bdnews24.com. According to the
15 new Covid-19 cases reported in Bangladesh
FE Online Desk
Published :
Jun 12, 2025 21:30
Updated :
Jun 12, 2025 21:30
Bangladesh has confirmed 15 new Covid-19 cases over the past day, bringing the total number of infections this year to 240.
Of the 240 cases this year, 82 were detected in the first 12 days of June alone, indicating a resurgence of the virus in the country, reports bdnews24.com.
According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), the new cases were identified after testing 134 samples in the 24 hours leading up to Thursday morning. The positivity rate for this period stood at 11.19 percent.
In Dhaka city, eight people tested positive from 62 samples. In Mymensingh, two cases were found from seven tests. Chattogram reported four cases from 53 tests, while one case was identified in Brahmanbaria from three samples.
Meanwhile, 18 patients have recovered during the same period.
Since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, Bangladesh has tested over 15.72 million samples, returning more than 2.05 million cases of positivity.
Of these, 29,500 people have died from the infection, 22 being recorded in 2024.
In 2023, as many as 37 people died due to Covid-19 after 1,368 had died in 2022.
The virus caused 7,559 fatalities in 2020 before another 20,513 people died in 2021, registering the deadliest year of the pandemic in Bangladesh.
Earlier, the DGHS issued precautionary measures in response to a surge in cases of new sub-variants of Covid-19 in several neighbouring countries, including India.
On Monday, the authorities have advised against non-essential travel to India and other countries experiencing virus outbreaks. At the same time, increased health screening and monitoring have been instructed at all land and airports to help contain the risk.
FE Online Desk
Published :
Jun 12, 2025 21:30
Updated :
Jun 12, 2025 21:30
Bangladesh has confirmed 15 new Covid-19 cases over the past day, bringing the total number of infections this year to 240.
Of the 240 cases this year, 82 were detected in the first 12 days of June alone, indicating a resurgence of the virus in the country, reports bdnews24.com.
According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), the new cases were identified after testing 134 samples in the 24 hours leading up to Thursday morning. The positivity rate for this period stood at 11.19 percent.
In Dhaka city, eight people tested positive from 62 samples. In Mymensingh, two cases were found from seven tests. Chattogram reported four cases from 53 tests, while one case was identified in Brahmanbaria from three samples.
Meanwhile, 18 patients have recovered during the same period.
Since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, Bangladesh has tested over 15.72 million samples, returning more than 2.05 million cases of positivity.
Of these, 29,500 people have died from the infection, 22 being recorded in 2024.
In 2023, as many as 37 people died due to Covid-19 after 1,368 had died in 2022.
The virus caused 7,559 fatalities in 2020 before another 20,513 people died in 2021, registering the deadliest year of the pandemic in Bangladesh.
Earlier, the DGHS issued precautionary measures in response to a surge in cases of new sub-variants of Covid-19 in several neighbouring countries, including India.
On Monday, the authorities have advised against non-essential travel to India and other countries experiencing virus outbreaks. At the same time, increased health screening and monitoring have been instructed at all land and airports to help contain the risk.
