According to reports, COVID-19 cases are on the rise across several states of India where a new Omicron variant is already spreading in parts of the country.
Since experts fear this variant may also affect Bangladesh, the authorities have been instructed to implement strict health safety protocols, including screening measures, at all land borders, seaports, and international airports across the country.
This alert was issued through an official order signed on 4 June by Prof Md Farhad Hossain, director (disease control) of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
Abdul Majid, the appointed sub-assistant medical officer at Benapole checkpost, said passengers returning from India are being examined for symptoms of coronavirus.
“If anyone shows symptoms of COVID-19, they will be isolated at the local upazila health complex,” he said.
Conversations with returning passengers revealed that, unlike Bangladesh, no screenings or tests are being conducted for COVID-19 in many parts of India.
The government had issued health guidelines including mandatory mask-wearing, maintaining social distancing, and avoiding public gatherings. However, as the infection rate declined over time, these restrictions were relaxed.
Recently, there has been a slight uptick in COVID-19 cases in the country again. As a result, the government has renewed its call for strict adherence to health guidelines to ensure public safety.