In a significant step forward in Bangladesh’s heath sector, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in Bangladesh, with Unicef's support, has launched a national guideline to protect children and vulnerable populations, including pregnant women from heat-related health risks.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Samanta Lal Sen announced the launch of this guideline, emphasizing its crucial timing amidst changing weather patterns attributed to climate change.
Unicef has provided full support for the development of this policy, recognizing its importance in addressing the rising temperatures and associated health risks.
The national guidelines, jointly developed by DGHS with Unicef support, stress the importance of a primary healthcare approach in protecting vulnerable populations from the adverse effects of climate change.
Meerjady Sabrina Flora, additional director general (Planning and Development) of DGHS, outlined the key aspects of the guidelines during the launch event on Sunday.
At the event, Dr Samanta Lal Sen highlighted the timeliness of the guideline, saying that people across the country are facing multitude of problems due to ongoing heatwave across the country.
Since April 19, Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) issued heat alert six times.
The health minister said proactive measures, including online training for healthcare professionals, will effectively implement the guideline nationwide.
"When the heat reached its peak, I gave only one instruction to everyone. Keep the hospitals empty. All diseases that can be operated on and treated later are closed for the time being and our hospitals are ready,” he said.
"While we may not have control over natural disasters, our ministry's main responsibility lies in safeguarding public health amidst rising temperatures. Emphasizing urbanization, we must prioritize tree planting initiatives to mitigate heat-related health risks," Dr Samanta Lal added.
Acknowledging the collaborative effort, the health minister expressed gratitude to Unicef for their support in developing the guidelines.
Unicef Bangladesh Deputy Representative Emma Bringham emphasized the severity of the heatwave situation, underscoring the crucial role of the guidelines in promoting public health and safety during the summer months.