Artificial Scarcity and Price Hike in Saline Amid Dengue Crisis in Bangladesh
Bangladesh is currently facing a critical situation with the surging number of dengue patients, resulting in an artificial scarcity and price hike in saline solutions. The National Consumer Protection Directorate’s Director General, AHM Shafiquzzaman, has sounded the alarm, stating that certain individuals are disrupting the saline supply chain, leading to inflated prices and a concerning scarcity.
In a meeting held at the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection’s headquarters, key stakeholders such as pharmaceutical companies, wholesalers, retailers, and officials from relevant authorities gathered to address the issue of saline availability at reasonable prices. It was evident that pharmaceutical companies have the capacity to continuously produce saline solutions, making the supply crisis unnecessary.
Director General Shafiquzzaman expressed his commitment to tackling this crisis head-on. Nationwide operations will be launched to address any irregularities detected. Strict action will be taken against those selling saline above the maximum retail price indicated on the packaging, aiming to ensure that saline is accessible to all at a fair price.
He emphasized the importance of adhering to the clearly marked price on the packaging, highlighting that there should not be any additional charges. Shafiquzzaman mentioned that despite the limited supply and high demand, the price must remain consistent. Any attempts to deceive or extort consumers will face legal action.
While addressing the supply chain, Shafiquzzaman clarified that pharmaceutical companies are the primary source of saline production. The distribution of saline is now regulated, and it is no longer distributed through vans but supplied directly to pharmacies. The specified price must be strictly observed, and as long as there is stock, it should be sold at the designated price.
The urgency of addressing the saline scarcity was further emphasized by the increasing number of dengue-related deaths in Bangladesh. Within a 24-hour period, 15 more deaths were reported, raising the death toll from this mosquito-borne disease to a staggering 767. Additionally, 2,944 patients were hospitalized due to the viral fever during the same timeframe, with 823 admissions in Dhaka and the rest seeking treatment elsewhere.
Presently, there are 9,988 dengue patients receiving medical care across the country, with the majority in Dhaka. However, it is worth noting that out of the total 157,172 dengue cases recorded by the Directorate General of Health Services, 146,417 individuals have made a full recovery.
The first two weeks of September witnessed a significant surge in dengue-related fatalities, claiming the lives of 174 people throughout Bangladesh. During this period, 33,336 dengue cases were reported. This alarming situation further highlights the urgent need to address the saline scarcity and ensure that essential medical supplies are readily available for those in need.
Bangladesh is now taking necessary actions to tackle the artificial scarcity and price hike in saline. By bringing together key stakeholders and launching nationwide operations, the government aims to ensure that individuals who disrupt the supply chain will be held accountable. The priority is to ensure that saline is accessible to all at a fair price, especially during this critical period when the country is battling the dengue crisis.
