Bangladesh exports medicine to 140 countries: Health Minister

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain has said that locally produced medicines now being exported to 140 countries.

''The export of medicines to over 140 countries reflects a significant advancement in the country's healthcare and pharmaceutical capabilities.''

The minister said, ''There were shortages even in essential medical products such as ventilators and syringes. However, the country was able to overcome health-related challenges later with support from the private sector.''

He added, it will take June 20 to make antibody of measles.

About the dengue situation, the minister said the Bangladesh Association of Pharmaceutical Industries (BAPI) has donated 100,000 units of intravenous (IV) saline to support treatment of dengue patients.

He said the Central Medical Store currently has a stock of 100,000 units of saline, while another 20,000 to 25,000 units are available at the upazila level across the country. 

''We are prepared to ensure additional supplies if demand increases.''

Regarding the recent child deaths at Ad-din Hospital, Sakhawat Hossain said the hospital authorities have been given two more days to respond to a show-cause notice issued by the government.

''If the authorities fail to provide a satisfactory response within the stipulated time, further legal action will be taken.''