At least 14 people, including children, were injured after being bitten by several rabid dogs in Kishoreganj upazila of Nilphamari district on Wednesday evening. Four of the victims, who were seriously injured, were sent to Rangpur Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment. The situation worsened as the upazila health complex ran out of rabies vaccines, leaving the injured in distress.

According to locals, the dogs attacked people in different markets between 7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., spreading panic across the area. One of the dogs was later beaten to death by residents. Victims and their families complained that they had to buy vaccines from private pharmacies at high prices due to the unavailability at the hospital. The upazila health officer confirmed that the health complex had no vaccine stock and advised patients to seek treatment at the district hospital.

Local residents expressed deep concern over the sudden dog attacks and vaccine crisis, urging authorities to ensure immediate vaccine supply and take effective measures to control stray dogs.

State Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr. M A Muhit announced that the government will recruit 100,000 health workers to strengthen healthcare delivery at the grassroots level. He made the statement on Thursday during a visit to the 250-bed General Hospital in Sirajganj, where he spoke to journalists about the initiative.

Dr. Muhit said that hospitals across the country are facing a severe shortage of manpower, and even the existing workforce is not being fully utilized. The ministry is working to ensure that posted staff remain at their assigned locations. He added that the government’s election manifesto prioritized the health sector, with plans to increase the budget and provide training for the newly recruited health workers to improve rural healthcare.

The state minister also noted that issues such as illegal establishments and brokers around hospitals cannot be solved through central directives alone. He emphasized the need for a social movement to combat corruption and ensure citizens’ rights, stating that the government and political parties will continue working toward that goal.

Food, Fisheries and Livestock, and Agriculture Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid said that excessive levels of heavy metals have been detected in Bangladesh’s food production through various tests, calling for urgent measures to eliminate them. He made the remarks on Tuesday during a meeting with officials at the Directorate General of Food in Dhaka.

The minister emphasized that ensuring both food supply and quality is essential so that people do not have to worry about food safety. He said the government aims to strengthen the Safe Food Authority to handle quality control for imports and exports, which could help align with international standards such as those of the USFDA. Rashid also highlighted the government’s goal to expand food exports beyond rice and to leave a lasting positive legacy for future generations.

At the meeting, the agriculture state minister, the food secretary, and the director general of the Directorate of Food discussed ongoing activities, challenges, and the need for teamwork to ensure safe and sustainable food systems.

Chattogram-10 Member of Parliament Saeed Al Noman stated that the government is committed to ensuring the highest level of medical care for those injured in the Halishahar gas line explosion. He made the remarks on Tuesday morning while visiting the burn victims at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in Dhaka. Noman added that additional medical assistance would be provided if necessary.

During his hospital visit, the MP spoke with doctors to learn about the patients’ current conditions and ongoing treatments. He also met with the families of the injured, assuring them of full government support. Noman urged the health minister to ensure the best possible treatment for the victims.

After the visit, he prayed for the souls of those who died in the explosion and wished a speedy recovery for the injured, reaffirming his commitment to stand by their families.

Former Pakistani Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan underwent the second phase of his eye treatment on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad. Doctors confirmed that he remained physically stable before and after the procedure and that his vision showed further improvement.

According to PIMS Executive Director Dr. Imran Sikandar, the 74-year-old was brought from Adiala Central Jail for follow-up treatment and received his second dose of anti-VEGF intravitreal injection, one month after the first dose administered on January 24 and 25. The injection was applied under a microscope by consultant ophthalmologist Dr. Muhammad Arif and vitreoretinal surgeon Dr. Nadeem Qureshi from Al-Shifa Eye Trust Hospital. The procedure was conducted as a day-care operation under strict medical protocols.

A medical board examined Khan before the treatment, including cardiology and general health assessments, which found him clinically stable and fit for the procedure. Officials stated that the injection was administered only after obtaining his formal consent and following all safety and procedural standards.

A new European study under the 'Toxfree Life for All' project has found harmful chemicals in popular headphone brands, including Bose, Panasonic, Samsung, and Sennheiser. Researchers tested 81 in-ear and over-ear headphones and discovered endocrine-disrupting substances such as Bisphenol-A (BPA) and Bisphenol-S (BPS), which can interfere with the human hormone system. The study warns that prolonged headphone use may increase the risk of cancer and other serious diseases.

According to the findings, nearly 98 percent of the tested headphones contained BPA, while more than three-quarters contained BPS. Some samples showed chemical levels as high as 315 milligrams per kilogram, far exceeding the European Chemicals Agency’s safety limit of 10 milligrams per kilogram. Experts explained that these chemicals can slowly leach from the plastic parts of headphones and be absorbed through the skin.

Emese Gulyas, head of the Toxfree Life for All project, urged European policymakers to ban all hormone-disrupting chemicals to protect consumers. Researchers cautioned that long-term use could allow these substances to enter the body through skin contact.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman chaired a meeting titled 'Building a Healthier Bangladesh' held on Sunday at 3 p.m. in the Cabinet Division’s special conference room at the Secretariat. The meeting focused on issues related to public health and national well-being.

According to the report, the session was attended by Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Hossain, Prime Minister’s Adviser Mahdi Amin, Cabinet Secretary Dr. Nasimul Gani, and Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister A.B.M. Abdus Sattar. The meeting was reported by Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS).

No further details about the discussions or decisions made in the meeting were provided in the source.

A legal notice has been sent to the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), the Local Government Division, and the secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives (LGRD) demanding immediate action to control mosquito infestation. The notice, dispatched by lawyer H. M. Rashdul Islam (Rashed) on Sunday, February 22, 2026, through postal mail, requires effective measures within seven days. Failure to comply will lead to a writ petition under Article 102 of the Constitution.

The notice cites the lawyer’s own dengue infection in September 2025 and the death of advocate Jannati Rehana (Joya) from dengue in October 2025 as examples of the worsening mosquito-borne disease situation in DNCC areas. It alleges that the unchecked spread of Aedes and Culex mosquitoes has caused widespread dengue, chikungunya, and other vector-borne diseases, posing a direct threat to public health and safety.

The notice further states that the city authority’s inaction constitutes gross negligence of statutory duties and a violation of citizens’ constitutional rights, warning of legal action if no steps are taken within the stipulated period.

Meghmallar Basu, former president of the Dhaka University unit of Bangladesh Chhatra Union and organizer of Network for Peoples Action, reportedly attempted suicide on Friday afternoon. He was admitted to Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital in Dhaka in critical condition after consuming around 20 sleeping pills. Hospital sources said his condition deteriorated rapidly before he was taken to the hospital, where doctors placed him under intensive observation. The latest reports indicate that his condition has become somewhat stable.

Multiple sources confirmed the incident. Jaber Ahmed Jubel, general secretary of Biplobi Chhatra Maitri, said Basu is currently under treatment. However, the reason behind his action remains unclear. Anik Roy, another organizer of Network for Peoples Action and former general secretary of Chhatra Union, stated that Basu had been physically unwell since an operation. He took some sleeping pills on Thursday night and lost consciousness before being hospitalized. Roy added that Basu is now out of danger.

No official explanation has yet been provided by his organization regarding the cause of the incident.

More than fifty people, including children and the elderly, were injured after being bitten by a stray dog in Phulbari upazila of Dinajpur on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The attacks occurred between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. across several areas of Shibnagar Union, including Chakkobir, Palpara, Daspara, Rambhadrapur, Purbo Bajitpur, Dadpur Abashon, and Malipara. One elderly woman, 70-year-old Mohiful Begum, was seriously injured and transferred to Dinajpur Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment. Locals later killed the dog responsible for the attacks.

According to hospital sources, 51 people received treatment at the Phulbari Upazila Health Complex, including 34 from Chakkobir village. All victims were given anti-rabies vaccines and primary care. The hospital reported having 300 anti-rabies vaccines in stock and requested 200 more. Residents said the suspension of government dog control drives had increased stray dog incidents, urging authorities to take immediate action.

Medical Officer Nawroz Hasan confirmed adequate vaccine supplies and advised immediate washing of bite wounds with soapy water before seeking medical care. The assistant commissioner described the situation as alarming and said necessary measures would be taken after consulting livestock officials.

At least 40 people were injured after being bitten by stray dogs in Veramara upazila of Kushtia over Sunday and Monday, according to local reports. Among them, 27 received treatment at the Veramara Upazila Health Complex, which currently has no preventive vaccines available. Packs of stray dogs were seen roaming areas including Veramara Government College, Government Women’s College, Girls’ School, and several market zones, creating widespread panic among residents and students.

Local residents, parents, and teachers expressed growing concern over frequent dog attacks, particularly during school hours. Many said they now avoid going out after dark due to safety fears. Locals accused authorities of failing to take visible action despite the long-standing problem. Health officer Dr. Mizanur Rahman confirmed the number of treated patients and the vaccine shortage.

Veramara Upazila Executive Officer and municipal administrator Rafiqul Islam stated that the municipality has been instructed to take immediate measures against stray dogs. Residents urged urgent intervention to control the dog population and prevent potential rabies outbreaks.

A 55-year-old woman named Nasima Khatun died during surgery at Meherpur Clinic in Mallikpara, Meherpur town on the night of February 15, 2026. Her family alleged that she died due to doctors’ negligence before the operation began. Following the incident, an angry crowd attacked two doctors, Mizanur Rahman and his son Mushfiqur Rahman Abhi, and vandalized equipment in the operation theater. Both doctors were seriously injured and later rescued by police and army personnel before being admitted to Meherpur General Hospital.

According to the doctors, Nasima suffered cardiac arrest before anesthesia was administered, and despite efforts, she could not be revived. The president of the Bangladesh Medical Association (BMA), Dr. Abdus Salam, stated that the patient died before the operation started and that the assault and vandalism would be investigated. Meherpur Additional Superintendent of Police Mehedi Hasan Dipu said legal action would be taken if a written complaint was filed by the patient’s relatives.

No formal complaint had been lodged with the police at the time of reporting.

After voting, many people notice a purple mark on their finger from indelible ink, which is used to ensure transparency in the election process. Some feel discomfort when the mark remains visible for days after the polls. Dermatologists explain that there is no instant way to remove the ink, but proper care can help fade it gradually without damaging the skin.

The ink is typically silver nitrate-based and reacts chemically with the outer layer of the skin, making it resistant to simple washing. The stain usually fades naturally within five to ten days as the skin renews. Experts warn against using bleach, acetone, or sharp objects, as these can cause irritation, burns, or infection. Instead, they recommend gentle home remedies such as washing with mild soap and warm water, applying lemon juice, regular toothpaste, baby oil, or coconut oil, and using light scrubs once daily.

Following these safe methods can help reduce the stain more comfortably while avoiding skin damage or allergic reactions.

Despite a government ban effective since August 1, 2023, open-drum soybean and palm oil continue to be sold widely across Bangladesh, including in Dhaka’s wholesale and retail markets. Consumers and small businesses prefer open oil because it is cheaper and can be purchased in flexible quantities. However, experts warn that such oil poses serious health risks due to contamination, lack of vitamin A fortification, and use of non-food-grade plastic drums.

Studies cited in the report show that 65 percent of edible oil in the market is sold in drums, with 59 percent lacking vitamin A enrichment and 34 percent containing insufficient levels. The absence of labeling and source information makes it impossible to trace the oil’s origin. Health experts link vitamin A deficiency to blindness in children and increased maternal mortality, urging coordinated government action to ensure safe, fortified oil.

Advocacy group PROGGA and nutrition specialists have called for strict enforcement of the ban and public awareness campaigns, warning that continued sale of open-drum oil threatens both public health and national nutrition security.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the death of a woman from Naogaon district, Bangladesh, due to Nipah virus infection. The confirmation came through an official statement released on Friday. Following the detection of this new case in the Rajshahi division, authorities have increased surveillance in border areas. The patient, aged between 40 and 50, developed fever, headache, and breathing difficulties on January 21. Her condition worsened, leading to hospitalization on January 27. Laboratory tests on January 29 confirmed Nipah virus infection, and she later died while under treatment.

According to WHO, Bangladesh’s International Health Regulations National Focal Point informed the organization of the confirmed infection on February 3. Investigations found that the woman had no recent travel history but had consumed raw date palm sap before falling ill. The virus is primarily carried by fruit bats of the Pteropus species, which can contaminate sap with saliva or droppings during winter.

Since 2001, Bangladesh has recorded 348 Nipah virus cases, about half linked to drinking raw date palm sap, while others resulted from human-to-human transmission.