Test fever patients for both Covid-19, dengue: DGHS
District and upazila Covid-19 hotlines will be used for dengue-related calls as well
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Saturday urged testing of all fever patients for both Covid-19 and dengue since high temperature is a symptom of both diseases.
Dr Afsana Alamgir Khan, deputy program manager at the National Malaria Elimination and Aedes Transmitted Diseases Control Programme of DGHS, made the suggestion while speaking at an online video conference on dengue preparedness.
DGHS Director General Prof Dr Abul Kalam Azad presided over the briefing.
Civil surgeons from 64 districts and upazila health and family planning officers from all over the country also participated in the conference, according to a press release.
Dr Afsana stated that dengue corners have been set up at all district hospitals and upazila health complexes, requesting the establishment of a dedicated team.
The DGHS has already distributed dengue kits in all 64 districts. A cautionary video about dengue will be broadcasted on channels and at hospitals, the press release reads.
District and upazila administrations, along with municipalities, have been requested to work together on cleanliness and eradication of dengue, Dr Afsana said at the meeting.
Every district and upazila has Covid-19 hotlines which have been requested to be used for dengue-related calls as well. Information regarding dengue patients has been asked to be sent to the control room of the health department.
Among others, Dr Abu Yusuf Fakir, additional director general of Health Education, and Dr Shahnila Ferdousi, line director of the Communicable Disease Control unit under DGHS, were also present at the videoconference.