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SIRAJGANJ, Aug 30: Rising temperatures and changing weather conditions have triggered an increase in measles, dengue and other illnesses in Sirajganj, putting heavy pressure on government hospitals across the district.
With patient numbers exceeding available beds, many patients are being treated on ward floors. The pressure is particularly acute in paediatric wards, forcing doctors and nurses to work longer hours to cope with the influx.
Recent hospital visits found patients occupying both beds and floor spaces in several wards, with some beds accommodating more than one patient. The growing number of patients and attendants is also putting additional pressure on hospital facilities.
Children are increasingly being admitted with fever, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite and weakness. Doctors have also found symptoms of measles and dengue among some patients.
Sirajganj Medical College Hospital and the 250-bed Sirajganj General Hospital are facing particularly high patient pressure, with many patients having to stay on floors due to a shortage of beds.
According to the latest data from the Civil Surgeon’s Office, 12 new measles patients were admitted to hospitals in the past 24 hours, bringing the number of patients currently receiving treatment to 28. So far, 2,031 measles patients have recovered and returned home.
Meanwhile, 27 new dengue patients were admitted during the same period, taking the number of patients under treatment to 72. A total of 748 dengue patients have recovered so far.
Health officials said the measles situation has improved considerably, but dengue cases are rising again amid high temperatures, changing weather and increased mosquito activity. Seasonal illnesses among children are also contributing to the growing hospital workload.
Sirajganj Medical College Hospital Director Dr ATM Nuruzzaman said doctors and nurses were working under considerable pressure but continuing to provide treatment despite limited manpower and infrastructure.
He advised parents to ensure children receive adequate water and nutritious food during weather changes and to seek medical attention promptly if fever or other symptoms develop.
Civil Surgeon Dr Nurul Amin Zaman said the measles situation was largely under control, but the increase in dengue cases was a concern. Government hospitals were taking necessary measures to provide treatment, while mosquito breeding grounds were being targeted as part of dengue prevention efforts.
Health officials urged people to keep their homes and surroundings clean, prevent the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes and protect themselves from mosquito bites during the day.
Doctors also advised parents to take children to hospital promptly if fever is accompanied by rashes, vomiting, severe weakness, loss of appetite, breathing difficulties or unusual behaviour.
Healthcare providers said the rise in measles, dengue and other seasonal illnesses was stretching the district’s limited beds and workforce. They called for increased hospital capacity, additional beds and manpower, alongside stronger public awareness and preventive measures.
