Bangladeshi health authorities have advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel to India and other neighboring countries amid a fresh rise in COVID-19 infections driven by new sub-variants of the virus.
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) issued the advisory on Monday (June 9) through a notification signed by Dr. Halimur Rashid, Director of the Infectious Disease Control Branch.
The directive comes as several sub-variants of the Omicron strain – LF.7, XFG, JN-1, and NB 1.8.1 – have been reported to be spreading rapidly in neighboring countries, especially India.
“There is a risk of these variants entering Bangladesh through international travelers,” the notice said, prompting authorities to ramp up health screening and surveillance at all land, air, and seaports.
The DGHS has directed all entry points to strengthen International Health Regulations (IHR) desks, conduct temperature checks using non-contact devices, and ensure adequate protective gear for frontline health workers.
Authorities have also been instructed to launch awareness campaigns to prevent further transmission.
Although Bangladesh has reported only one COVID-19-related death recently, health experts say a rising trend in infections is being observed.
The International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B) has confirmed the presence of XFG and XFC, sub-variants of the highly transmissible JN-1 strain, within the country.
The DGHS reiterated several preventive measures for the public:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap for at least 23 seconds.
- Wear masks that cover the nose and mouth.
- Maintain at least three feet of distance from infected individuals.
- Avoid touching the face with unclean hands.
- Cover nose and mouth with a tissue or elbow when sneezing or coughing.
Besides, authorities advise individuals with symptoms to stay home, wear masks, and seek medical attention if conditions worsen. The public can also contact the IEDCR hotline at 01401-196293 for further assistance.
Health officials have emphasized that while the current situation is not yet alarming, early preventive measures are crucial to avoid a potential outbreak.
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