The cold weather has caused a surge of diarrhoea cases in Chuadanga where the majority of affected are children
At the same time, a significant prevalence of rotavirus infections has also been reported. Doctors of the hospital said the diarrhoea is being prolonged due to this virus.
Chuadanga Sadar Hospital, the major hub for the treatment of Chuadanga people experiencing a huge number of diarrhoea patients in recent days especially since the cold weather started to sweep over the district, known for frequently recording the nation’s lowest winter temperatures, is already recorded lowest temperature in the country.
Hospital sources revealed that a total of 305 patients were admitted for diarrhoea between December 5 and December 10.
As of Thursday morning, over 57 patients are still hospitalised in the diarrhoea ward, including 43 children. Additionally, more than 200 patients are receiving treatment daily in the outdoor department.
Dr. Mahbubur Rahman Milon, Junior Consultant (Pediatrics) of the hospital, stated that cold-related illnesses are affecting children, with diarrhoea being the most common.
He mentioned that many children in the district are infected with rotavirus.
“As there is no specific medication for rotavirus, children typically suffer from diarrhoea for four to five days before recovering naturally as the virus dies,” he said.
Babli Khatun, a resident of the municipal area of Chuadanga, shared her experience.
Babli brought her eight-month-old child for treatment and admitted the baby five days ago. She expressed her frustration over the overcrowding in the ward and plans to get discharged as early as possible.
Dr. Rakib Sadi, Residential Medical Officer (RMO) of the hospital, said that the hospital has an adequate supply of medicines related to children.
However, lack of saline sets and cannulas is causing some challenges, he informed. He expects the supplies to arrive soon.
Dr. Mahbubur Rahman Milon further emphasised the importance of proper care for children during winter.
He urged people to focus on food safety and hygiene, stating that combating diarrhoea would be difficult without increased awareness in these areas, especially in winter.
“It is very necessary for the people of the district as cold weather will continue here for about months,” he added.