Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday directed the administration to take preparations in advance to face the field-level situation if the second wave of Covid-19 pandemic hits the country in winter alongside surge in cold-related diseases, reports UNB.
Expressing concern over the reluctance about face-mask use, she also directed all concerned to take measures for ensuring the use of masks in a larger way to protect people from Covid-19 infections.
The Prime Minister made the directives while presiding over the Cabinet meeting held virtually.
The Prime Minister joined the meeting through a videoconference from her official residence Ganobhaban, while other cabinet members were connected from Bangladesh Secretariat.
"Today a long discussion was held on Covid...the Prime Minister has given us instructions for taking preparations over how to face the field-level situation, if the second wave (of Covid-19) comes," said Cabinet Secretary Khandker Anwarul Islam at a press briefing after the meeting.
The directives came as the Covid-19 is resurfaced in many countries, particularly the cold countries and local experts also suggested that there should be preparations to fight the Covid in the coming winter, he said.
An FE Report adds: The national technical advisory committee on Covid-19 has expressed deep concern over people's reluctance to comply with health safety guidelines set by the government.
Such a situation and unawareness of health guidelines could trigger a second wave of Covid-19 in the country, they fear.
The health experts 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 infections. Screening and quarantine need to be ensured," said a statement issued by the taskforce on Sunday night.
Committee's Chairperson Prof Dr. Mohammad Shahidullah chaired the virtual event and discussed issues with Director General of 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, they said fearing a second wave in Bangladesh too if "such a situation continues".
The experts also said they are witnessing that the people in our country are indifferent to follow health guidelines. They urged authorities concerned to take necessary preparations to ensure health care in case of rise in infections.
The committee, however, expressed satisfaction over measures taken by the health ministry towards Covid-19 vaccine.
It suggested celebrating upcoming Durga Puja on a small scale and in compliance with hygiene rules.
The experts reiterated the need for the quarantine facilities for the health workers on duty in the hospitals.
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