Relaxing lockdown increased Covid-19 infections: Bangladeshi PM

DHAKA, May 14, 2020, Dhaka Tribune. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that relaxation of lockdown has served to increase the rate of infection of Covid-19, Dhaka Tribune reported.

“But I am hopeful that we can control this infection rate too. If we compare ourselves to the developed world, we can see that our health sector is showing much competence in controlling Covid-19,” she said.

The premier made the statement from the Ganabhaban at the inaugural program of cash aid disbursement of Tk1,250 crore to five million families on Thursday morning.

Prime Minister’s Principal Secretary Dr Ahmad Kaikaus conducted the program.

The prime minister also urged citizens to be more cautious against the coronavirus.

“Cautiousness does not mean wearing masks all the time; you have to breathe. Sometimes masks may affect your lungs due to lack of oxygen transmission,” she warned.

However, she advised the people to wear masks when going out in public.

The premier also urged everyone not to crave the N95 mask, saying that it is not necessary for the public, but only for health care workers.

“I think it’s better not to waste this (N95) mask; it’s more useful if it’s sent to the hospitals,” added the prime minister.

Coronavirus has so far infected 17,822 people and killed 269 people in Bangladesh, according to official reports.