Despite a sudden rise in Covid-19 infections in the country prompting the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) to issue 11-point health directives, these are largely being ignored. Most people remain unaware that a new wave of coronavirus has begun.
This was the scene observed on Saturday, in areas including Jatrabari, Wari, and the Sayedabad bus terminal in the capital.
On-site visits showed that workers returning to Dhaka from different parts of the country after the Eid-ul-Azha holidays were exhibiting widespread apathy. Hardly anyone was taking precautions.
A few people wore masks, mainly to protect themselves from dust, but they were not following any of the other recommended health measures.
Akhtar Hossain, an autorickshaw driver from Jatrabari, said: “We haven’t heard anything about Covid starting again. We haven’t seen any announcements from the government. No public announcements (miking) have taken place in this area.”
Abul Kalam, on duty in the traffic department in Sayedabad, was seen wearing a mask.
Speaking about Covid, he said: “I spend the whole day out on the roads and use masks regularly to protect myself from dust. The government has provided masks, but we haven’t received any specific guidance regarding coronavirus.”
Raihan Hossain, who was walking through a crowd wearing a mask, said he wears one every day when going out, as a matter of habit.
He had heard reports about Covid resurfacing but had not yet started following other precautionary measures.
On June 4, one person died from Covid-19 in Dhaka. Two more deaths were recorded on June 13, along with 15 new cases.
Daily infection numbers continue to rise. In response, DGHS Director General Professor Dr Md Abu Zafar announced 11 health directives at a press conference on June 11.
Relevant authorities have already been instructed to strengthen surveillance and enforce hygiene compliance at all land, sea, and airports under the International Health Regulations (IHR) desks.
Public guidelines:
- Avoid public gatherings and wear masks at all times.
- Regular mask use to prevent respiratory infections.
- Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Dispose of used tissues safely.
- Wash hands with soap and water or use sanitizer for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Maintain a distance of at least three feet from infected individuals.
Advice for suspected patients:
- Stay at home and rest if symptoms are present.
- Encourage infected individuals to wear a mask.
- Ensure caregivers also wear masks.
- Contact IEDCR (01401-196293) or the health hotline (16263) if necessary.
