Khulna Shishu Hospital, the lone child hospital in Khulna, faces bed crisis as the number of cold-related patients has increased. Photo: Metropolis-
Rashidul Islam-
A mild cold wave is blowing over the Khulna division. The number of cold-related patients is increasing in hospitals. Among them, the number of Pediatric patients is increasing. Because of this, Khulna Shishu Hospital, the lone child hospital in Khulna, has run out of beds.
Khulna Medical College Hospital has also been witnessing more pediatric patients in the last few days. Hospital authorities say that the number of patients with colds, fevers, coughs, and pneumonia is high due to winter.
Khulna meteorologist Amirul Azad said that the lowest temperature in the country was recorded in Jashore at 9 degrees Celsius. Besides, the lowest temperature in the Khulna division was 9.2 degrees Celsius in Chuadanga, 10 degrees Celsius in Kushtia, and 10 degrees Celsius in Khulna. As the lowest temperature in the country is in Jashore, the mild cold wave is blowing in the Khulna division.
He further said that the weather in the entire country might remain dry with partly cloudy skies. Moderate to dense fog will likely fall over the country from midnight to morning, and it might continue till noon in some parts of the country. Night temperatures may remain almost unchanged across the country, and day temperatures may increase slightly. The meteorologist also said moderate to severe winter might continue in the country’s north, north-western and central parts due to a reduction in temperature difference between day and night.
Dr Rabiul Hasan, director of Khulna Medical College Hospital, said that the number of cold-related patients in the hospital has increased. Among them, the number of pediatric patients is increasing. There are elderly patients as well. The number of patients with pneumonia, rheumatism, and respiratory problems is also increasing. Child diarrhea patients are also coming.
The director of the hospital mentioned that maximum attention is being paid to ensure that the patients do not suffer in the hospital.
Dr Kamruzzaman, a senior consultant and supervisor of Khulna Children’s Hospital, said that pediatric patients with diarrhea, pneumonia, cold, and fever are coming more. Every day 600 to 700 children are being treated outdoors. Many children need admission, but it is not possible due to a shortage of beds. There has been bed crisis since last November. Such a crisis will continue throughout this month. Those not getting seats are returning home, but they are admitted once the seats are vacant.
He said this hospital has become a place of trust for the people of Khulna’s southern region. Children under 6 months of age should not be weaned from breastfeeding in case of diarrhea. Let them drink more pure water. Parents need to be careful with babies; especially mothers need to be aware of the increasing severity of winter. Then they will get benefits.
