The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) has confirmed the presence the Delta variant, popularly known as the Indian variant, of coronavirus in seven samples that were sent out from Gopalganj.
The patients are currently quarantined at their respective homes in Telivita and Kalivita villages under the Sadar upazila.
Meanwhile, to prevent further transmission of the Delta variant, the upazila administration decided to put both villages under a 7-day strict lockdown starting Saturday morning.
Gopalganj Civil Surgeon Dr Sujat Ahmed confirmed the matters via a press briefing on Saturday afternoon.
He said: “Earlier 50 samples out of a total of 252 samples collected from Boultali, Sahapur and Satpar unions tested positive for Covid-19.
“Of these, the presence of the Delta variant has been found in seven samples after a total of 11 samples were sent to Dhaka’s IEDCR for genome sequencing on May 28.”
Deputy Commissioner Shahida Sultana said: “A strict lockdown has been declared in Televita and Kalivita villages since the presence of the Delta variant was found in those two villages. Necessary steps have been taken so that no one can travel in and out of the two villages. During the lockdown period, the administration will provide necessary aid to the area.”
In the last 24 hours, 15 new Covid cases have been detected in Gopalganj. So far, the total number of Covid cases in the district now stand at 3,943 and the total number of deaths at 40.
