PM for all-out preparations to fight possible second wave of Covid-19
Apprehending the second wave of coronavirus in the country, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today instructed the authorities concerned to take all-out preparations up to the field-level as part of the precautionary measures to fight any possible resurfacing of Covid-19 in the approaching winter.
Referring to the newest wave of virus infections in many countries across the globe, the prime minister urged the people to wear masks and abide by all prescribed health protocols to stop the spread of the deadly Covid-19.
"Preparations will have to be taken from right now at the field-level to fight the possible second wave of the Covid-19," Cabinet Secretary Khandker Anwarul Islam told a news briefing quoting the prime minister as saying following the weekly cabinet meeting.
Hasina instructed all to use masks and take precautionary measures against the cold alongside taking instant treatment for any Covid-19 symptoms as winter is approaching, he said.
The premier attended the virtual meeting from her official Gono Bhaban residence while her cabinet colleagues got connected from the Cabinet Division through a video conference.
"The honourable Prime Minister has requested all time and again to wear masks to effectively fight the coronavirus," Anwarul said.
He said the cabinet expressed its frustration about the people's attitude towards the use of masks, stressing on conducting massive awareness campaigns.
The instructions came from the cabinet meeting after holding a long meeting on the precautionary measures to face the coronavirus as winter approaches.
Replying to a query, the cabinet secretary said that they have already given instructions to the religious affairs ministry to inform all the mosques across the country to circulate a declaration of the government that during the Zohr or Magrib prayers the use of masks is mandatory for all.
The drives of mobile courts are being continued alongside conducting massive awareness campaign to make people aware about the health guidelines, particularly wearing of masks, he said.
He requested the media to play a pivotal role in making people aware to use the masks.
"If the second wave arrives and we remain alert and conscious utilizing the experiences that we have already gathered, it will be easy for us to face any possible situation," he continued.
The cabinet secretary said they have already instructed all concerned to hold an inter-ministerial meeting tomorrow to discuss in details about the measures to combat the possible second wave of Covid-19.