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