Twelve children have died of pneumonia in the hilly district of Khagrachhari over the past 20 days, as weather-related illnesses rise amid seasonal changes. The district is witnessing a surge in fever, cough, and cold cases, with most patients being children.
According to data from the district hospitals, around a thousand children have received treatment for various ailments in the past week alone. Cases of fever, cough, respiratory distress, and pneumonia are increasing rapidly, especially among children aged between 6 and 18 months. In the last 20 days, pneumonia has claimed the lives of 12 children.
Although Khagrachhari experiences heat during the day, the temperature drops at night, particularly in rural areas where the cold is more intense- putting people in remote regions at greater risk. Doctors have advised parents not to panic but to take extra care of their children and adopt preventive measures against pneumonia.
Meanwhile, the children’s ward at district hospital is facing a severe shortage of space, with the number of admitted patients exceeding its capacity fourfold. The 15-bed ward currently accommodates 50 to 60 children- sometimes even more- forcing many to receive treatment on the floor. Additionally, several hundred patients are being treated at the outpatient department every day.
Dr Omar Faruk, a pediatric specialist at Khagrachhari Modern District Hospital, said, “Due to the change of season, newborns and young children are being affected by pneumonia. With colder weather ahead, the number of patients is likely to rise further. Extra care is essential to keep children healthy during this time.”
Resident Medical Officer Dr Ripple Bappi Chakma added, “Since the beginning of this month, the number of pneumonia patients has increased, putting pressure on our facilities. Despite our best efforts, 12 children have died from pneumonia. Besides, a shortage of staff has made it difficult to provide adequate care.”
Although Khagrachhari’s 100-bed hospital has been upgraded to a 250-bed facility, it is still operating with manpower for only 50 beds, according to the doctors. Currently, only 18 of the 57 approved medical officers are on duty, leading to difficulties in managing the rising number of patients.
Local residents have urged the authorities to deploy more doctors and staff at the hospital to ensure proper treatment for children.
