The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, Chattogram City Unit, has launched an extensive awareness campaign in Chattogram to combat the new and highly contagious Omicron XBB variant of the coronavirus on 17 June. The day-long initiative included distributing leaflets, making public announcements, and handing out masks and hand sanitizers in and around Agrabad More.

Chattogram City Corporation Mayor and City Red Crescent Chairman, Dr. Shahadat Hossain, attended the awareness program as the chief guest. “The new Omicron XBB variant is more infectious than previous strains,” Dr. Hossain stated. “While isolation centers are prepared in various hospitals across Chattogram, raising public awareness is currently the most crucial step.” He commended the Chattogram City Red Crescent’s initiative and extended his sincere gratitude to all participating volunteers. He also urged caution regarding the potential outbreaks of dengue and chikungunya.

The event, chaired by City Red Crescent Youth Chief A.N.M. Tamzid, was also attended by executive committee members Nizam Ul Alam Khan, Ziaul Haque Sohel, Md. Mehedi Hasan Raihan, Farahnaz Mabud Silvi, Md. Enamul Haque, Youth Deputy Chief (2) Mozahidul Islam Rana, and Head of Disaster and Humanitarian Response Department Rokibul Islam.

Over a hundred youth Red Crescent volunteers actively participated in the campaign, disseminating awareness messages to pedestrians, shopkeepers, and the general public. The president and youth chief announced that such activities would continue and be expanded in the future.

Many also lauded the Red Crescent volunteers’ tireless efforts during past COVID-19 situations.