Recent developments in Bangladesh
indicate a slight increase in COVID-19 cases, driven by the emergence of new
Omicron subvariants. While health authorities state there is no major cause for
immediate alarm, increased vigilance and adherence to health guidelines are
being emphasized.
The International Centre for
Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) has identified two new
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants, XFG and XFC, within the country. These
subvariants are descendants of the highly transmissible JN.1 lineage. They were
initially detected at Chattogram Medical College Hospital in April 2025. Data
from icddr,b's surveillance sites across nine districts, including Kishoregonj,
Rajshahi, and Chattogram, show a rise in positivity rates, reaching
approximately 7% of tested patients in May 2025, an increase from near-zero
rates earlier in the year.
As of early June 2025, Bangladesh
has reported a relatively low number of daily COVID-19 cases. For instance, on
June 8, 2025, three new cases were reported, bringing the total caseload to
2,021,742, with no new fatalities recorded. However, a slight upward trend in
daily cases has been observed since May.
A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1,
is also reportedly spreading in neighboring India and other countries. The
World Health Organization (WHO) has designated NB.1.8.1 as a "variant
under monitoring" due to its high transmission rate, though it does not
appear to cause more severe disease than previous strains. The Directorate
General of Health Services (DGHS) in Bangladesh has issued an alert, advising
citizens to avoid non-essential travel to India and other affected countries
and to enhance health screening and surveillance at all entry points.
Despite adequate vaccine stocks,
public interest in COVID-19 vaccination has significantly decreased. The
government is reportedly considering restarting vaccination efforts,
particularly targeting elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Health
experts and organizations like icddr,b continue to stress the importance of
basic precautions, including:
Vaccination: Especially for
vulnerable populations.
Mask-wearing: In crowded or
enclosed spaces.
Physical distancing.
Hand hygiene: Regular washing or
sanitizing of hands.
Self-isolation: Staying home if
feeling unwell.
Enhanced surveillance measures,
including thermal screening at airports and land ports, are being implemented
to prevent the entry and spread of new variants. The DGHS has also provided
instructions for suspected cases, advising home isolation for mild symptoms and
hospital care if symptoms worsen.
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