Amid a sharp rise in COVID-19, dengue and other viral fevers across Bangladesh, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Admin) of Bangladesh Medical University (BMU) Prof Dr Md Abul Kalam Azad on Tuesday warned of growing pressure on the country’s healthcare system and emphasised the urgent need for a scientifically guided well-coordinated response.
Speaking at a Continuing Medical Education (CME) seminar hosted by BMU, Prof Azad said, “We are entering a critical period. COVID-19 and dengue cases are surging simultaneously, and if we fail to act now—guided by medical evidence—we risk overwhelming our hospitals and frontline services.”
He called for heightened surveillance in border areas to prevent further spread of COVID-19 and reminded the public to continue adhering to health safety protocols, including wearing masks, maintaining hygiene, and avoiding unnecessary gatherings.
“This is not a time for complacency. Our preparedness must match the evolving threats,” he cautioned.
The seminar, titled ‘An Overview of Current Fever Trends in Bangladesh’, was held at the Super Specialised Hospital auditorium and brought together leading physicians, researchers and medical faculty.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Md Shahinul Alam attended as chief guest and echoed the call for calm, not panic, urging strict adherence to evidence-based dengue treatment guidelines.
Associate Prof Dr Fazle Rabbi Chowdhury, in his presentation on COVID-19 Trend 2025, said infections are rising, largely driven by Omicron sub-variants XFG and XFC.
Though not categorised as “Variants of Concern” by the WHO, they are being closely monitored due to their rapid spread, including among vaccinated individuals. “Those with weakened immunity—especially patients with diabetes, kidney disease, cancer, or those undergoing dialysis—are at high risk,” he said.
Dr Rabbi said co-infections involving Covid-19 and seasonal flu, popularly known as ‘flurona’, are being observed, heightening the risk of complications for vulnerable groups.
He urged such people to wear surgical masks in public, eat nutritious meals, hydrate frequently, and avoid crowded places.
On dengue, Associate Prof Dr Md Nazmul Hasan shared updated guidance under Dengue Guideline 2025.
He strongly warned against the use of antibiotics and steroids, emphasising they are not only ineffective but potentially harmful in viral infections. “Paracetamol, fluids, rest and timely hospital visits remain the most effective treatment,” he said.
Dr Hasan also rejected unproven remedies like papaya leaf juice, saying there is no scientific basis for its use in raising platelet counts and warning of potential liver complications from misuse.
He stressed that platelet transfusions should only be considered in specific, clinically justified cases.
According to data presented, more than 1,800 patients have been hospitalised with dengue so far this month, with at least seven deaths reported from Dhaka and Barisal.
Internal Medicine specialist Dr Abed Hossain Khan added that chikungunya is also making a comeback, with 161 confirmed cases in recent months and significant post-viral symptoms affecting patients’ daily lives.
Prof Azad urged all hospitals—government and private—to activate fever clinics, ensure adequate supplies of IV fluids and emergency care, and prepare healthcare workers through updated training. “We must rely on facts, not fear. Our strength lies in coordinated, guideline-driven response,” he said.
The CME was organised by BMU’s Internal Medicine Department and moderated by Assistant Prof Dr Khaled Mahbub Morshed Mamun.
Also present were Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research and Development) Prof Dr Md Mujibur Rahman Hawlader, faculty deans, department heads and senior clinicians.
