Dhaka: The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued 12 new urgent instructions to government hospitals across the country to ensure more efficient treatment for dengue patients. The instructions were sent today to directors of all medical colleges and specialized hospitals, superintendents of district headquarters hospitals, civil surgeons, and upazila health and family welfare officers. The instructions were given in a circular signed by the Director (Hospitals and Clinics) of DGHS, Dr. Abu Hossain Md. Moinul Ahsan.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the directives require all government hospitals to immediately create special wards and form specific treatment teams for dengue patients. The Department of Health believes this system will improve patient care, reduce risks, and enhance the quality of treatment in hospitals.
The directives include urgent testing for NS1, with CMSD or CDC being contacted for NS1/antigen kits, and ensuring the availability of necessary tests and medicines at hospitals. Admitted patients must be kept in specific wards, and a board of specialists should be formed for treating dengue and chikungunya patients. Outpatient care for suspected cases should take place in designated rooms, and ICU care should prioritize dengue patients where available. Additionally, a nurse should manage patient information, and any dengue-related deaths need to be promptly reported. Hospitals are also urged to coordinate with city corporations for cleanliness and mosquito control, hold regular coordination meetings, and other district hospitals may adopt these instructions if needed.