Address healthcare crisis for flood-affected victims

The fears that were anticipated are now becoming reality. As floodwaters begin to recede in the Feni area, the incidence of diseases is on the rise. People in flood-affected areas are increasingly suffering from diarrhea, skin diseases, fevers, and colds. Many are experiencing sores, rashes, and other skin conditions on their hands and feet.

According to reports published in the media on Thursday (August 29), due to the nine-day-long flood situation, the elderly and children in Feni, Noakhali, Laxmipur, and Comilla are particularly affected by fevers, colds, and diarrhea. Flood victims report that many areas are still submerged, and numerous community clinics remain closed. As a result, they are deprived of adequate medicine and medical services.

The floodwaters carry a large amount of contaminated waste and germs, which are exacerbated by the presence of trash and open toilets in the area. Prolonged waterlogging has led to the spread of waterborne diseases among the flood victims. When an entire region is submerged, there is little to no means of protection. Local administrations should have anticipated this health crisis and strengthened medical services in advance.

The Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief has reported that 619 medical teams are operational in 11 districts to provide healthcare services to people affected by the flood. Meanwhile, the death toll from the floods has continued to rise, with 31 people reported dead as of Wednesday afternoon, according to the ministry’s latest update on the flood situation.

Those who have delivered aid have primarily focused on providing food, drinking water, and emergency medical care. However, volunteers are not typically equipped to provide long-term medical treatment. This is where the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) should have taken earlier measures. During this national crisis, ordinary people from various parts of the country have commendably rushed to help. Similarly, healthcare professionals could have set an example by taking timely responsibility and initiatives in addressing the healthcare needs of flood victims.

According to available information, many flood-affected areas have yet to receive any medical assistance. Due to submerged roads and disrupted communication systems, many relatives are unable to transport patients to hospitals. The situation is particularly dire for children, women, and the elderly. Adding to the misfortune, there is a severe shortage of essential medicines in these flood-hit areas. While some people may take over-the-counter medicine for fever, cough, or diarrhea without a doctor's advice, the unavailability of these medicines has left patients in a helpless state. Especially for children suffering from diarrhea, the lack of timely access to oral rehydration salts (ORS) could lead to severe complications.

Some relief workers have brought emergency medicines along with food supplies, but they still haven't been able to reach remote areas. In this situation, we urge the authorities to take more immediate action and intensify efforts to provide medical services to flood victims. Not a single life should be lost due to negligence. We want every person in the flood-affected areas to receive free medical care and medicines until the situation returns to normal.