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4 years ago

Health experts worry about second wave of covid-19 infections in Bangladesh

Migrant workers seeking to go back to the job destination countries gather outside the Saudi Arabian Airlines office at Sonargaon Hotel in the city on Sunday to confirm their air tickets — FE photo by Shafiqul Alam
Migrant workers seeking to go back to the job destination countries gather outside the Saudi Arabian Airlines office at Sonargaon Hotel in the city on Sunday to confirm their air tickets — FE photo by Shafiqul Alam

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The national technical advisory committee on coronavirus (Covid-19) expressed deep concern as people in the country are seen reluctant to abide by health safety guidelines set by the government.

Such a situation and unaware of following health guidance among people could bring the second wave of the virus infections in the country, they feared.

The experts at a national committee also urged the authorities concerned to introduce a coronavirus tracker app along with necessary travel guidelines as passengers from different countries continue to land in Bangladesh. 

“Passengers from different countries are coming to the country. It is necessary to issue travel advice and guidelines. Prevention activities need to be strengthened at the point of entry to prevent the infection. Screening, quarantine needs to be ensured,” it read in a statement after holding its 20th meeting on Sunday.

Chairperson of the Committee Prof Dr. Mohammad Shahidullah chaired the virtual event and discussed issues with Director General Health Services Dr ABM Khurshid Alam.

The second phase of Covid-19 infection is seen in different countries and infections are so high in neighbouring India while we are witnessing that people in our country are seen indifferent to follow health guidelines, they said fearing a second wave in Bangladesh too if such a situation continues.

They urged authorities to take necessary preparation to ensure health care in case of infection rise.

The committee expressed satisfaction over the measures taken by the health ministry towards COVID-19 vaccine. 

The committee also suggested celebrating the upcoming Durga Puja on a small scale and in compliance with hygiene rules.

The experts committee reiterated the need for the quarantine facilities for the health workers on duty at the hospital.

“Health workers as well as their families are at risk of contracting COVID-19. It is evident from the opinion of the doctors that the health workers need safe accommodation for quarantine after performing their duties in the hospital,” it read.

The committee also suggested setting up an inter-hospital network for an effective referral system.

“Measures have been taken to set up a technology-based network at Sylhet Osmani Medical College Hospital. If it is successful, it will be expanded to other hospitals later,” they mentioned in the meeting.

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