Shahariar Islam Sovon :
A severe cold wave has been sweeping across the nation, causing temperatures to drop significantly and affecting millions, especially in rural and underprivileged communities.
The biting cold has brought with it a sharp increase in cold-related illnesses, with children and the elderly being the most vulnerable.
Hospitals across the country are reporting an alarming rise in admissions for respiratory issues, diarrhea, pneumonia, and other cold-related ailments. In many districts, pediatric and general wards are operating at full capacity to accommodate the influx of patients.
Most of the patients admitted to the Dhaka hospitals with colds and fevers are children while the number of children seeking outdoor treatment has almost doubled compared to normal time.
A large number of children are suffering from respiratory infections and pneumonia, doctors said adding, that asthma cases among children have also risen alarmingly.
Assistant Sargon Dr. Kasedul Islam Nayan shared his worries with The New Nation about his child’s worsening condition during the ongoing cold wave. “The doctor advised us to use a nebulizer to maintain his breathing, but he is in a very grim condition due to fever and diarrhea,” he said.
Dr. Nayan added that the situation is not unique to his family. “It worsens every winter. It’s not just my child; many children in our neighborhood are also suffering from cold-related fever,” he said.
Doctors report that the winter season usually sees a rise in illnesses such as diarrhea, cold, cough, and respiratory problems, particularly among children. The combination of chilly weather and poor immunity often exacerbates these conditions, leading to a spike in hospital admissions.
Medical professionals are urging parents to take preventative measures, such as ensuring children stay warm and hydrated, and seeking timely medical care to manage symptoms before they escalate.
Over the past few days, the cold wave across the nation has intensified, with temperatures fluctuating between 12 and 13 degrees Celsius. The biting cold and chilly winds have significantly impacted daily life, particularly for laborers and low-income families.
The drop in temperature has also led to a surge in cold-related illnesses, affecting people of all ages, especially children and the elderly. Hospitals across the district are experiencing an increase in patient admissions due to respiratory problems, diarrhea, dysentery, and pneumonia.
According to the Kishoreganj District Civil Surgeon’s Office, 150 patients have been admitted to various hospitals in the past 24 hours, primarily to pediatric and diarrhea wards.
At Shaheed Syed Nazrul Islam Medical College Hospital and the 250-bed General Hospital, an average of 90 to 100 patients are being treated daily for cold-related illnesses, including children and elderly individuals suffering from severe respiratory and gastrointestinal issues.
The health authorities have urged residents to take extra precautions, especially for vulnerable groups, and to seek immediate medical attention in case of severe symptoms. Local administrations and NGOs are also stepping up efforts to provide warm clothing and medical support to those in need.
