Covid-19 deaths still low: Health minister

Health Minister Zahid Maleque on Saturday claimed the death toll from Covid-19 still remained low in Bangladesh because the health sector took quick steps as per Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's directive.

He made the comment while inaugurating the first PCR lab facility at Zainul Haque Sikder Women's Medical College and Hospital in the capital.

"We are now providing treatment for both Covid-19 and other patients at every government hospital. In the meantime, when we see private hospitals are also stepping forward to join with the government in fight against the pandemic, we become really happy," he added.

Speaking at the virtual event, the minister also urged the hospital authorities to charge reasonable fee from patients and ensure safety for the frontline hospital staff.

"If they get infected, who will give treatment then? So, I hope the safety of the frontline doctors and nurses will be ensured in the hospital," he added.  

Professor Dr Abul Kalam Azad, director general of the Directorate General of Health Services, also virtually joined the event as a special guest.

He echoed the minister, saying the morality rate against the Covid-19 cases was relatively lower in Bangladesh than in other countries.

"But, still we cannot accept the deaths of the people in our country," added Professor Azad.

He mentioned that even the developed countries are going through a hard time to keep the pandemic under control.

"I appeal to doctors that we have to reduce the number of deaths at any cost," he added. 

Sikder Group Director Parveen Haque Sikder, MP, was present physically at the hospital with doctors, nurses and many others.