Staff Correspondent:

In the wake of rising Covid-19 infections globally, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued an 11-point directive aimed at curbing the potential spread of the virus within the country.

DGHS Director General Dr Md Abu Jafor read out the guidelines at a press conference on Wednesday (June 11), where he also briefed the media on the current Covid-19 situation in Bangladesh.

The guidelines include precautionary steps for the general public as well as instructions for those showing symptoms of infection.

“Infections caused by viruses have been rising, and several new sub-variants of Covid-19 have already been detected,” said Dr Jafor.

Speaking on the ongoing vaccination campaign, he said booster doses should be administered again to people over the age of 18, pregnant women, individuals above 60 and those who are immunocompromised, depending on the evolving situation.

Those eligible can receive their booster shots by visiting the nearest vaccination centre, he added.

The DGHS chief also requested political parties to refrain from organising rallies or public gatherings in the current situation.

“To prevent the spread of the virus through international travellers, all land, sea, and air ports have been instructed to reinforce surveillance at their IHR (International Health Regulations) desks and to ensure compliance with health guidelines,” Dr Jafor said.

In light of this, the DGHS urged all relevant agencies and the media to help raise awareness among the public by disseminating the following guidance:

FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC:

1. Avoid public gatherings as much as possible and wear masks if attendance is necessary.
2. Wear masks to protect against respiratory illnesses.
3. Cover your nose and mouth with your arm or a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
4. Dispose of used tissues in a covered bin immediately.
5. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitiser for at least 20 seconds.
6. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands.
7. Maintain a distance of at least three feet from people showing symptoms and avoid close contact with infected individuals.

FOR SUSPECTED PATIENTS:

1. If experiencing fever, cough, or shortness of breath, remain at home until fully recovered.
2. Ask patients to wear a mask to cover their nose and mouth.
3. Caregivers should also wear masks as a precaution.
4. Seek help from the nearest hospital or contact IEDCR (01401-196293) or the health hotline (16263) if necessary.

Dr Jafor noted that preparations are already underway across the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and other relevant government departments to respond to any potential spike in Covid-19 cases.

These include ensuring availability of RT-PCR and rapid antigen testing, vaccines, updated treatment guidelines, essential medicines, medical-grade oxygen, high-flow nasal cannulas, ventilators, ICU and HDU beds, and dedicated Covid-19 hospitals.

The DGHS chief also mentioned that protective equipment such as KN95 masks, PPE, and face shields is being stockpiled for healthcare providers.

“We will provide further updates on our readiness through another press briefing very soon,” Dr Jafor added.

Regarding the upcoming Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examinations, he said that a decision would be made in coordination with the Ministry of Education.

According to the DGHS report, 13 fresh Covid cases were reported in Bangladesh in the last 24 hours till Tuesday morning.

With the latest figure, the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country rose to 20,51,760. The death toll from the virus remained unchanged at 29,500.

A total of 101 samples were tested during the latest reporting period of 24 hours [between 8am Monday and 8am Tuesday], resulting in a daily positivity rate of 12.87%.

The overall positivity rate stands at 13.05% till now, while the fatality rate based on detected cases remains at 1.44%, said the DGHS press release.

Meanwhile, the number of people who have recovered from Covid in the country now stands at 20,19,378.