Voicing deep concerns over the emergence of a new sub-variant of COVID-19 sub-variant, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Dr Abu Jafor of Wednesday urged all to avoid all forms of public gatherings.
The DGHS DG came up with the call while speaking at a press briefing at the DGHS Headquarters in Mohakhali.
He also called on nationals to reintroduce health-conscious practices, including the use of face masks and frequent hand washing.
Speaking on the ongoing vaccination campaign, Dr Jafor said booster doses should be administered again to people over the age of 18, pregnant women, individuals above 60 and those who are immune compromised, depending on the evolving situation.
Those eligible can receive their booster shots by visiting the nearest vaccination center, he added.
The DGHS DG also requested political parties to refrain from organising rallies or public gatherings in the current situation.
Regarding the upcoming Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examinations, he said that a decision would be made in coordination with the Ministry of Education.
Besides, COVID-19 tests will be limited to patients exhibiting symptoms or suffering from serious health complications, said the DG.
Despite a recent surge in COVID-19 infections across the country, there is no need to test all hospital patients, he said.
"There is no requirement to test every patient. Only those with fever, cough, breathing difficulties or other clear symptoms - and those in critical conditions - should be tested. Physicians will advise accordingly," he added.
The DGHS chief also said hospitals have been asked to submit their demand for RT-PCR testing kits, which will be distributed by Thursday.
Mentioning the evolving COVID-19 situation, the DGHS chief recommended additional vaccine doses for high-risk individuals, including pregnant women, those over the age of 60, and people with underlying health conditions.
"There is an adequate supply of vaccines in government stock for these groups," he said.
While acknowledging the rising number of cases, Dr. Jafor urged the public not to be panic.
"We've dealt with COVID-19 before and can do it again - all we need is vigilance," he said, adding that the media should play a responsible role in raising awareness.
He further mentioned that new COVID-19 units are being reopened in several hospitals, and all healthcare facilities have been asked to stay prepared.
The DGHS chief also announced that both RT-PCR and rapid antigen testing are being reintroduced.
Instructions have been given to ensure that hospitals remain prepared with necessary medical supplies including vaccines, essential medicines, oxygen, high-flow nasal cannulas, ventilators, and ICU and HDU facilities.
He also emphasised ensuring protective gear for frontline healthcare workers, including KN95 masks, PPEs and face masks.
These preparations are underway in coordination with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and other relevant government agencies, he added.
Besides, surveillance at airports, land ports and seaports has been strengthened under the International Health Regulations (IHR) framework, he said
Officials at all entry points have been directed to strictly enforce health guidelines, he added.
According to the DGHS report, 13 fresh COVID-19 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 has risen to 20,51,760.
The death toll from the virus remains unchanged at 29,500.
