Neglect in Healthcare Raises Cholera Risk, Warns Rizvi

Senior Joint Secretary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, has cautioned that the risk of cholera in the country is rising due to anti-vaccination propaganda and long-standing neglect in the health sector. He emphasised that without prompt, effective, and coordinated action, the situation could deteriorate further.

Rizvi made the remarks on Tuesday (7 April) during the inaugural ceremony of a BNP-organised procession, held from the Central Shaheed Minar to the National Press Club, marking World Health Day 2026. He stressed the need for a united approach involving the government, the Ministry of Health, the medical community, and all stakeholders in public health to prevent the outbreak from escalating.

Highlighting the urgency, Rizvi said, “From 12–13 March to early April, cholera has claimed the lives of 38 people. The districts of Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj, and Mymensingh have been officially designated as ‘hotspots’. It is imperative to intensify health-based interventions in these areas immediately.”

He further noted that anti-vaccination campaigns, widespread superstition, and systemic neglect of the healthcare sector have contributed significantly to this heightened risk. “Even in advanced countries, the activities of anti-vaccine groups complicate efforts to control outbreaks. Modern healthcare relies on science, and a scientific approach in public health is non-negotiable,” Rizvi stated.

Rizvi also drew attention to the chronic underfunding of health services and research. He warned that limited resources make it challenging to advance medical research and urged greater investment in scientific and clinical studies. “Accurate disease diagnosis and effective treatment are impossible without evidence-based healthcare policies,” he said.

He assured the public that citizens expect the government to respond swiftly and decisively whenever an epidemic or disease outbreak occurs. Rizvi expressed hope that the patriotic and humanitarian medical community would play a prompt, responsible, and effective role in combating diseases such as cholera.

The event was attended by BNP Health Secretary Dr. Rafiqul Islam, National Executive Committee Volunteer Secretary Mir Sarafat Ali Sapu, Cultural Secretary and actor Ashrafuzzaman Uzzal, along with healthcare workers and representatives from nursing institutes across the country.

Cholera Situation Summary (12 March – Early April 2026)

Rizvi concluded by reiterating the critical need for science-driven health interventions and increased funding for research, emphasising that only coordinated and evidence-based efforts can prevent cholera from escalating into a national crisis.