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The ongoing outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 virus infections in humans in Bangladesh: a public health emergency
  • Sukanta Chowdhury
Sukanta Chowdhury

Corresponding Author:sukanta@icddrb.org

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Abstract

The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is a highly transmissible respiratory disease affecting millions of people worldwide. We summarized the current status of COVID-19 outbreaks in Bangladesh. Since the first COVID-19 confirmed case in Bangladesh on 8 March 2020, 7667 cases and 168 deaths were reported until 30 April 2020. Most cases (54%) were detected in the capital city Dhaka. Bangladesh Government declared 41 days shutdown, starting from 26 March 2020 to reduce the transmission of this highly contagious respiratory disease. Likewise, in other COVID-19 affected countries, the increasing trend of COVID-19 positive cases was continuing. People of Bangladesh are highly vulnerable to this disease mainly because of high population density, poor hygienic practice, unnecessary mobility, limited access to the hospitals, and insufficient ICU (intensive care unit) facilities. The government should focus on widespread laboratory testing and rapid response to prevent further spread of SARS-CoV-2 virus.