Amid the surge of the new JN.1 Covid variant globally, the National Technical Advisory Committee on Covid-19 has suggested the authorities concerned take the necessary initiatives, including mask wearing, to prevent the spread of the virus.
The committee came up with four recommendations in its 65th meeting held on Tuesday with Dr Mohammad Shahidullah, president of the committee, in the chair, said in a press release on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh recorded 16 new infections with no reports of deaths from Covid in the 24 hours till Wednesday morning.
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in its daily bulletin said that the rate of infection in the meantime was 3.98%.
So far, 29,477 people have died from Covid-19 infections in the country while another 20.5 lakh have been infected with the virus.
An elaborate discussion was held at Tuesday’s meeting about the latest advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO) about the new variant.
Mentioning that the Covid situation is under control and the new variant has not been identified yet in the country, the committee suggested taking precautionary measures, including wearing of masks, especially in high-risk areas, including hospitals, and by individuals with low immunity.
The advisory committee has suggested the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) strengthen surveillance by reviewing global reports to monitor the infection situation and take necessary preparations for quick treatment, including Covid tests and ICUs, in case of emergencies in the future.
Besides, the committee also recommended screening of travellers coming from abroad.
It has suggested taking decisions about Covid vaccine through regular examination of scientific data and advised people at high risk to take the fourth dose of the vaccine.
The meeting also suggested Covid test before any surgery if the patient has any symptoms.
