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DGHS issues emergency warning as India sees fresh COVID surge

Staff Correspondent: Health 2025-06-10, 7:38pm

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The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued an emergency alert in response to a recent rise in COVID-19 cases caused by new Omicron sub-variants in neighboring countries, including India.

Variants such as LF.7, XFG, JN-1, and NB 1.8.1 have been reported to be spreading rapidly. Authorities warn that these variants could enter Bangladesh through international travelers.

In light of this, the DGHS has called for heightened vigilance at all land, air, and sea entry points. Health desks at these ports have been instructed to strengthen monitoring, especially for travelers arriving from or departing to affected countries.

To prepare for a possible outbreak, the DGHS has urged relevant agencies to enhance both preventive and preparedness measures. A five-point directive has been issued, which includes:

  • Strengthening surveillance, health screening, and monitoring at IHR (2005) health desks across all ports of entry.

  • Conducting non-contact temperature checks using thermal scanners and digital thermometers.

  • Maintaining an adequate stock of masks, gloves, and personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers.

  • Raising public awareness about virus prevention measures to reduce the risk of transmission.

  • Advising the public to avoid non-essential travel to affected countries.

  • The DGHS stressed the need for coordinated action to prevent the entry and spread of these new variants in the country.