Health directorate orders hospitals to ensure adequate supply of essential medicines amid winter disease surge
The directive is part of seven special measures issued by the health authority to strengthen hospital preparedness during the winter season
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has instructed hospitals across the country to ensure adequate supplies of essential medicines, including nebuliser solutions, antibiotics, oxygen, oral rehydration salts (ORS) and intravenous fluids, to tackle the rising prevalence of winter-related diseases.
The directive is part of seven special measures issued by the health authority to strengthen hospital preparedness during the winter season, when respiratory infections and other seasonal illnesses typically increase.
The instructions were issued through a circular signed by Dr Abu Hossain Md Moinul Ahsan, director (Hospitals and Clinics) of the DGHS.
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The circular asked all government hospitals to immediately implement the measures to ensure uninterrupted treatment for patients.
In addition to ensuring the availability of medicines and medical supplies, hospitals have been instructed to repair broken windows, doors and other openings that allow cold air to enter wards, either through the Public Works Department (PWD), Health Engineering Department (HED) or their own management.
Hospitals have also been asked to provide patients with adequate blankets and mosquito nets to protect them from cold-related complications.
To improve patient monitoring and care, the DGHS has made mandatory afternoon rounds in paediatric and medicine wards.
Hospital authorities have also been encouraged to provide health education to patients' attendants on the prevention and management of winter-related illnesses.
As part of enhanced monitoring, hospitals must submit daily reports to the MIS control room, while hospital heads have been directed to maintain special oversight of the implementation of the measures.
Severe cold led to a surge in patients suffering from cold-related illnesses across Rangpur division, with 1,421 new patients admitted to Rangpur Medical College Hospital over the past three days and 103 deaths recorded from 1-3 January.
According to DGHS data, more than 100,000 people were admitted to hospitals nationwide with winter-related illnesses between 1 November last year and 4 January this year.
During the same period, 44 deaths were reported due to such diseases, highlighting the need for strengthened preparedness and timely medical response during the winter months.
