It is encouraging that, after a difficult period of a few weeks, we are seeing reduced rates when it comes to the latest wave of the coronavirus. Not only has test positivity rates dropped by 44% in two weeks, but the hospitalization rate has dropped by 24% as well. The government has also stated that following these successes, schools and other educational institutions will be reopened -- this is an extremely positive development, and we hope that there are no more delays in reopening schools and education institutions.
Much of Bangladesh’s success in combating Covid-19 can be attributed to the relentless and efficient vaccination drive, the scope of which has been expanded to a degree that almost no one is being left behind. It was indeed very encouraging to see the transgender community being added to the fold, receiving jabs on February 14. This not only has implications for the present and the overall safety of all Bangladeshi citizens, but also has implications for the future progress of the state, sending the right message of equitability that Bangladesh has always intended to instill.
However, the fact still remains that there remain plenty of people still reluctant when it comes to vaccines, social distancing, and wearing masks. The government’s initiative to check everyone’s vaccine status is praiseworthy, and we hope that strict implementation of vaccine mandates together with awareness campaigns allow for good sense to prevail and those who remain uncooperative when it comes to vaccines and masks see the error in their ways.
Ultimately, we have to ensure that the whole country is vaccinated as soon as possible so we can leave this pandemic behind for good.