China donates 19,000 test kits to support dengue fight

China has donated 19,000 dengue combo testing kits to support Bangladesh in its ongoing fight against the mosquito-borne disease.

The kits, capable of detecting NS1, IgG, and IgM simultaneously, will help identify and determine the stage of dengue infection. NS1 appears early during active infection, IgM indicates a recent infection, and IgG suggests past or secondary infection.

The handover ceremony took place at 10:30am today (3 July) at the conference room of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in Mohakhali, Dhaka. 

The event was presided over by DGHS Director General Prof Dr Md Abu Jafor and attended by Chargé d'Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh Dr Liu Yuyin.

Speaking as the chief guest, Prof Dr Md Sayedur Rahman, special assistant to the chief adviser for the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, said, "The DGHS is swiftly dispatching expert doctors, ambulances, and diagnostic kits to dengue hotspots. The kit donation from China is a part of this effort."

He added that the dengue situation is still under control. "We have kept Mugda Hospital prepared. If the number of patients rises, it might become challenging, but if people follow the health guidelines, patient management will be easier."

Sayedur Rahman also warned about the presence of multiple viruses. "Four viruses – including dengue, chikungunya, and influenza – are currently circulating. Many are mistaking symptoms as minor illnesses and staying at home. Late hospital visits are complicating our treatment efforts. We believe we have enough test kits, and if any shortage arises, we'll procure more. But public awareness is key—any symptoms should prompt immediate testing and medical consultation," he said.

"Cooperation between Bangladesh and China in the health sector will become more visible in the future. This partnership will go beyond kits and vaccines," he added. 

He also said that discussions are underway on infrastructure and policy expansion, including building large hospitals, developing electro-medical equipment, enhancing vaccine capabilities, and introducing robotic technology.

Liu Yuyin said, "China will continue supporting Bangladesh's health sector and will further strengthen mutual exchanges and partnerships to benefit more people."

Meanwhile, one more person died of dengue in the 24 hours till yesterday, bringing this year's death toll to 45. During the same period, 358 dengue patients were admitted to hospitals across the country, according to DGHS.