Health and Family Minister Zahid Maleque today said the rate of Covid-19 infection in the country has increased drastically. ICU crisis has occurred in hospitals. In such a situation, 40 new ICUs will be added to the capital’s hospitals within this week.

He made the remarks while speaking virtually at the inauguration ceremony of the expanded building of the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) on Monday afternoon.

“The infection rate was 2 percent in March last year but now it is 18 percent. COVID has increased about 8/9 times. If these infected patients come to the hospital together for treatment, it will be difficult to provide services,” said the minister.

He said he suggested giving a “partial lockdown” to more infected areas to control the rising tide of Covid-19 infection, which could be a quick decision.

He added that it has been proposed to close the recreation centers. “I have proposed to limit Waz mahfil, marriage and eating in restaurants. Home Office has been advised.”

“Wearing a mask has been asked to be strict. Advised to give partial lockdown in more infected areas. The decision will come officially in a day or two,” said Health Minister Zahid Maleque.