Lifestyle
7 Homemade Drinks for Sore Throat
As winter is approaching, many people are experiencing conditions like sore throat and scratchy throat. It causes constant itchy feelings, irritation, and difficulty in swallowing. Don’t worry! Some drinks can relieve the scratchy, and painful feelings. Let’s take a look at home remedies that kills a sore throat fast.
7 Healthy Drinks to Treat Sore Throat
Warm honey-lemon water
Warm water can help settle a sore throat. Hot water is special to soothe a sore throat and can help provide relief for cough, and runny nose.
However, warm water with lemon may be especially useful as it can add a small extra dose of vitamin C to pacify your sore throat. Vitamin C is great to boost the immune system and help you overcome colds.
Read Food, Drinks during Dengue: What to consume, what to avoid.
Additionally, you can add honey with your warm lemon water to treat a sore throat and cough. A small 2017 study found that honey helps to speed up the recovery of a sore throat as honey has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Ginger tea
Traditionally, people use ginger tea to calm a sore throat. A 2013 study has shown that fresh ginger tea might help protect you from the respiratory syncytial virus — a highly infectious virus that commonly affects young children.
Besides, ginger is loaded with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. If you drink ginger tea in the morning and before going to sleep, it soothes your sore throat.
Read Masala Tea Health Benefits: How Can It Improve Your Immunity
Moreover, ginger tea provides relief from motion sickness and alleviates nausea from morning sickness or chemotherapy. Ginger tea can also manage blood pressure and support heart health. It is also excellent to manage weight and blood sugar levels. The properties of ginger can fight against pain, inflammation, and cancer.
Chamomile tea
If you don’t like ginger tea, you can take chamomile tea, which is made from dried Matricaria flowers and is loaded with various healing properties. Research shows that chamomile tea can reduce inflammation in the throat.
Additionally, Chamomile tea is generally caffeine-free and so it is excellent to promote relaxation and help you sleep. Proper and adequate sleep boost your immune system and help you quick recovery from illness.
Read Health benefits of Chamomile Tea
Plus, chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties which minimize swelling and also repair tissues and reduce a cough.
Peppermint tea
You can also take peppermint tea which is another warm beverage to ease sore throat symptoms. Peppermint tea contains spearmint which has anti-inflammatory effects to reduce swelling and soothe a sore throat.
Besides, if you can inhale the steam from peppermint tea, it can treat other symptoms such as nasal congestion, and help you to breathe better.
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Warm soup
You can take chicken noodle warm soup which is considered as is a classic home remedy for common illnesses.
Any kind of warm soup can be a great way to soothe your sore throat and get some key nutrients when you're feeling sick. Chicken broth has fatty acids and protein. Protein and fatty acids help your body build and repair healthy muscle, bone, skin, and blood cells.
Selenium that is available in chicken broth helps prevent and manage cardiovascular diseases and complications, including strokes, and high cholesterol.
Read Healthy Winter Soup Ideas and Recipes to Help You Get Through the Cold Weather
Moreover, chicken broth is enriched with vitamins and minerals, which are useful against common ailments like the common cold, the flu, and food poisoning.
Smoothie
When you're sick, you might experience a decreased appetite that can make it more difficult to get all the nutrients your body needs to fight off an illness.
So, you need a nutrient-packed smoothie as it is made with fruits and vegetables that are loaded with antioxidants — molecules to boost our immune system.
Read Child-friendly Winter Drinks to Keep Your Family Healthy, Warm, and Cozy
Some antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to make your smoothies: Blueberries, Strawberries, Mangoes, Kale, Spinach
Turmeric milk
Turmeric has powerful antioxidant properties to heal wounds. The properties of turmeric also fight off several infections like colds and sore throats. If you can drink hot turmeric tea or milk for a sore throat, you can cure your sore throat within 1-2 days.
Turmeric milk is anti-inflammatory also and contains the compound curcumin which boosts immunity. Turmeric also helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and improves digestion. It is also good for our skin and improves bone health.
Read 7 Healthy Warm Drinks to Stay Warm This Winter
Bottom Line
Sore throats are common and natural, especially during cold and flu season and winter season. While you are experiencing this condition, it is important to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to fight the infection. You can try homemade healing drinks to soothe your throat pain. So far, we have discussed 7 sore throat remedies to try at home. Hope it helps!
Radwan Mujib visits Paris photo exhibit on Bangladesh’s birth, Bangabandhu
Radwan Mujib Siddiq, grandson of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and trustee of Centre for Research and Information (CRI), made a visit to ‘Witnessing History in the Making: Photographs by Anne de Henning’ at Guimet Museum of Asian Art in Paris.
The exhibition has been produced by Samdani Art Foundation and Centre for Research and Information.
The exhibition is being held from October 19, 2022 to January 23, 2023 in partnership with Asia Now Paris Art Fair and Guimet Museum of Asian Art, according to a press release.
The first iteration of the exhibition was held in Dhaka from December 10, 2021 to March 31, 2022 to celebrate 50 years of Bangladesh’s independence.
The exhibition presents rare, never before seen images by French photographer Anne de Henning, curated by Ruxmini Reckvana Q Choudhury.
Between 1971 and 1972 the photojournalist captured the birth of Bangladesh.
Anne’s photographs from 1972 feature Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. She captured Bangabandhu giving a speech at the first Council Meeting of Awami League after the independence of Bangladesh. “I came specifically from Calcutta to photograph the event,” she said. Although at the time Anne favoured shooting in black and white, she chose to capture this event in colour because of the vibrant blue, white and red stripes of the shamiyana — ceremonial tent —that housed the event.
Radwan Mujib also attended the exhibition when it was held at National Art Gallery, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
Radwan graduated in politics and history from the London School of Economics. He did his masters in comparative politics there.
He now looks after the CRI and is working to empower and inspire the youth through its Young Bangla platform.
Radwan is the publisher and architect behind ‘Mujib’, an autobiographical graphic novel on the Father of the Nation for the young readers.
He also played a key role in the making of “Hasina: A Daughter’s Tale”, a docudrama on his aunt Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and mother Sheikh Rehana.
Both the graphic novel and the docudrama were critically acclaimed in Bangladesh and abroad.
Bangladesh participates in Fashion World Tokyo
Bangladesh has participated in "Fashion World Tokyo (FaW), the largest trade show for the fashion industry in Japan.
To retain the prevailing market share and augment Bangladesh’s export to Japan market, Fashion World Tokyo will play significant role, said the government.
The trade show held from October 18-20, brought all kinds of fashion wear, apparel, bag, shoes, textile, leather, fashion accessory and fashion sourcing from all over the world, with around 600 exhibitors.
Ambassador of Bangladesh to Japan Shahabuddin Ahmed inaugurated Bangladesh Pavilion on October 18 at the Tokyo Big Sight, Japan.
Japan is the 11th largest export destination of Bangladesh.
In FY 2021-22, Bangladesh exported goods worth US$ 1353.85 million to Japan which is 14.38% higher than the previous financial year.
Under the market development initiative of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), Ministry of Commerce, Bangladesh, 30 (thirty) reputed exporters belonging to the apparel industry as well as leather goods are participating in this fair.
RX Japan Limited, one of the world's reputed event organizers, is organizing the event.
Ambassador along with other Embassy officials visited Bangladeshi booths while Dr. Ariful Haque, Minister (Commerce) of the Embassy accompanied and introduced Bangladeshi companies as well as NRB exhibitors.
Bangladeshi exhibitors got good responses from the Japanese buyers, said the Bangladesh Embassy in Tokyo on Thursday.
In the evening on 18th October, Embassy of Bangladesh, Tokyo organized Bangladesh FaW Networking Event at Conference Tower of Tokyo Big Sight with the participation of Bangladeshi exhibitors, Japanese companies, NRB Exhibitors and invited guests from Japanese entities.
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Ambassador Shahabuddin Ahmed delivered welcome remarks and requested NRB Businessmen to help Bangladeshi exhibitors to expand their business in Japan market.
The other speakers include Toshinaga Ikue, from UNIDO ITPO Tokyo, Nishizawa from Japan Chamber, Hajime Suzuki, Chief Director, International Sales, RX Japan, Mohammad Hatem, Executive President, BKMEA and Embassy Officials.
The networking event was moderated by Dr. Ariful Haque, Minister (Commerce) of the Embassy.
The EPB has been participating in the fair with a good number of exporters along with leading sector players for over a decade.
British Curry Festival at InterContinental Dhaka with Michelin Star Chef Dominic Chapman
The British Curry Festival, which showcases the UK’s favourite curry dishes alongside the best of British regional cuisine, is returning to Dhaka after a decade. The announcement was made at a press conference on October 19, 2022 at InterContinental Dhaka.
Organized jointly by InterContinental Dhaka and Curry Life Magazine UK, the globe-trotting festival was held for the first time in Dhaka in 2001, with the last instalment in Dhaka being in 2011. Now, the festival is returning more than a decade later. The festival will begin tomorrow (October 21, 2022) at the InterContinental Dhaka’s ‘Elements – All Day Dining’ restaurant for buffet dinner, which will continue until October 26.
Read:5 Simple One-Skillet Dinner Recipes for Busy Bachelors
Curry is Britain’s favourite dish. There are an estimated 12,000 curry houses in Britain. Of these, 90% of restaurants are operated by chefs of Bangladeshi origin.
Over the last two decades, the British Curry Festival has taken the best British curry experience across Europe to Asia. This year, the festival features Michelin Star Chef Dominic Chapman, who is the storied Head Chef and Patron of The Beehive restaurant in Berkshire (the Michelin Star is awarded to restaurants for outstanding food and service, based on quality and consistency). Having travelled the world and worked with several Michelin Starred chefs, Chapman is well acquainted with the rich and complex flavours of international cuisines. Alongside The Beehive, where he has been since 2014, Chapman recently acquired the Michelin-star gastropub The Crown at Burchetts Green, Berkshire. Chapman’s arrival in Dhaka marks the first time a Michelin Star Chef has visited Bangladesh.
Alongside Chapman is an impressive cohort of 5 more award-winning curry chefs: Chef Jamal Uddin Ahmed, owner of the Shozna, Kent; Jafor Solim Uddin of the Maidenhead's The Fat Buddha; Syed Zohurul Islam, Executive Chef at The Capital, Durham; Chef Utpal Kumar Mondal, former Executive Chef of Hotel Hindustan International; and Chef Moloy Halder, Executive Chef of Specialty Groups.
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Among those present at yesterday’s press conference were Lord Karan Bilimoria, former president of the British Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a life peer of the UK House of Lords; Atiqur Rahaman, Managing Director, Bangladesh Services Limited; Sheikh Mohammad Maroof, Additional Managing Director, City Bank; Frances Jacks, Director of Communications, British High Commission; Syed Belal Ahmed, Editor, Curry Life Magazine; Syed Nahas Pasha, Chief Editor, Curry Life Magazine; and Ashwani Nayar, General Manager, InterContinental Dhaka.
Lord Bilimoria said, “Curry is an essential part of the British way of life. Whether they live in rural or urban areas, government housing or mansions, everyone eats curry, and everyone loves curry. The growth of the industry has been spectacular, emerging from a handful of restaurants in the 1980s to over 12,000 today. Why this curry revolution? The answer is simple: because of the Bangladeshi community, and pioneering Bangladeshi chefs and restaurateurs, in the UK. That’s why it is very important and pertinent that we are here today. Among the doom and gloom that is plaguing us today, be it due to the Ukraine-Russia war, and the numerous crises in energy, labour, and more, this festival is a ray of sunshine amongst all that.”
Read: Health Benefits of Nigella Seeds (Kalijira)
He added, “I have felt completely at home since I landed in Bangladesh. It is a pleasure to be here at the InterContinental Dhaka; not only does it have a great history, it is today a phenomenal facility with world-class service comparable to anywhere else in the world.”
Speaking about the British Curry Festival, Robert Chatterton Dickson, British High Commissioner said, “I’m delighted that traditional British curries are being showcased and celebrated in Bangladesh through the week-long British Curry Festival. Curry houses have been a feature of life in the UK for over 200 years, and curry is now a firm British favourite. The UK curry industry was led from the start by enterprising Bengalis, and its continued strength is a great symbol of BritBanglaBondhon.”
During the British Curry Festival at InterContinental Dhaka, Chef Dominic Chapman said, “I’m greatly looking forward to learning about the culture of Bangladesh. I can’t wait to work with the team and have unique culinary experiences. While I will definitely be creating dishes inspired by British recipes, I’m excited to make the best use of the local produce as well. I have learned much from having attended previous editions of the festival, not least how very different ‘British Curry’ is compared to the palates of the subcontinent.”
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Food, Drinks during Dengue: What to consume, what to avoid
Every year a huge population is affected by Dengue fever. The main risk factor of dengue is the reduction of blood’s platelet level to a great extent that it could be fatal. The body requires sufficient vitamins, minerals, and protein to produce platelets. Patients diagnosed with dengue fever, need to consume the right diet for a fast recovery from dengue fever. Let’s take a look at the recommended foods and drinks during dengue fever.
Best Foods and Drinks for Dengue
Papaya leaves
Different studies have shown that the extract of the leaves of papaya is used as a complementary treatment for disorders of platelet function. Juice of Papaya leaves can help in increasing the platelet count in blood and boosts the immunity of your body.
Enzymes like papain and chymopapain are available in papaya extracts that prevent bloating and other digestive disorders. Papaya leaves juice is considered to be one of the best food items to increase platelets in the blood of patients suffering from dengue fever.
Read Dengue Fever: Symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention
Vegetables
Dengue patients should eat vegetables like spinach, pumpkin, paprika, carrot, watercress, celery, broccoli, and beetroot to trigger the platelet levels in the blood. These vegetables help you purify your body. Make sure the vegetables are properly washed and cleaned before eating or cooking.
Spinach is enriched with protein and Vitamin K. These vitamins participate in the metabolism of coagulation factors and help to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding.
Take pumpkin with seeds, as they have amino acids and vitamins essential for platelet formation. If you regularly eat pumpkin, including seeds, it improves the absorption of proteins and vitamin A. These nutrients participate in the production of these small cells.
Read Why do Mosquitoes bite me so much?
Beetroot is rich in antioxidants that help prevent platelet reduction due to the effects of free radicals. It has vitamins A, C, and K and essential minerals, that help prevent the deterioration of blood vessels and the development of circulatory problems. By drinking beetroot juice regularly Dengue patients can strengthen their body's immunity.
Fruits
To increase the platelet count in the blood Dengue patients need both Vitamin C and Vitamin K. So while recovering from Dengue, the patients need to eat citrus fruits like lemon, orange, kiwi, or tangerines, and other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, or currants also.
Green Coconut water
Green coconut water is always best and it has huge health benefits. It is also a popular and effective drink to raise platelet levels. Coconut water bestows vitamins A, B, and C, and minerals, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus also.
Read Conjunctivitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Besides, it is perfect for dengue patients as they experience dehydration as a result of high fever, diarrhea, anorexia, vomiting, and nausea during the febrile phase (days 4-6).
Nuts
As nuts and almonds are good sources of proteins and proteins are essential for normal platelet count, Dengue patients can take sufficient amounts of nuts during dengue fever.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is full of nutrients including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, sodium, copper, and vitamins C, E, and B.
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Therefore, aloe vera juice has huge medicinal applications and it is an excellent ally in taking care of cardiovascular health and promoting platelet production in blood. Dengue patients can keep this food in their diet.
Yogurt
Yogurt is known for having probiotics-active bacteria. These active bacteria are very useful for keeping the intestines free of harmful germs and bacteria that are capable of causing diseases.
Dengue patients need to take Yogurt regularly to keep their defenses high. But not more than 150 grams of yogurt a day to get its healing benefits.
Read How to entertain an unwell child without screen time
Chicken Soup
Scientific evidence is available that chicken soup is great to stop the symptoms of colds and flu. Chicken soup is rich in Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Antioxidants, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, and Carnosine.
These nutrients are essential to stimulating the defenses so that healing is carried out quickly. It will also help Dengue patients stay hydrated and raise the temperature of the airways, which is very effective in loosening mucus.
Green tea
Green tea is called one of the most popular healing drinks. It has a high content of polyphenols, very valuable anti-oxidant compounds with immunostimulatory effects.
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A scientific study shows that a particular type of phenolic compound, called catechins, has the ability to eliminate some types of influenza viruses.
So, green tea should be included in the Dengue fever diet.
Neem Leaves
Neem leaves are blessed with chemicals such as Nimbin and Nimbidin that have anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. Research shows that these leaves have positive results in treating dengue by increasing blood platelets and white blood cell count.
Read How to Apply for Indian Medical Visa from Bangladesh
Foods and Drinks to Avoid while Recovering from Dengue Fever
Patients need to avoid certain foods that contain salicylates when infected with dengue fever. These types of food make blood thinner and slow clotting.
Non-vegetarian Foods
During the infection of dengue fever the human body becomes weak, the digestive system slows down, and non-vegetarian food does not easily digest. Therefore, while recovering from dengue fever, patients must strictly avoid non-vegetarian food.
Fried or Oily Foods
Dengue patients should also avoid oily foods burgers, pizza, potato chips, fried chicken, doughnuts, etc as these foods contain an increased amount of fat and can lead to high blood pressure and cholesterol.
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Spicy Foods
Don’t take spicy foods at all during dengue fever as they can cause acid accumulation in the stomach and result in ulcers and damage to the wall. Eating these types of food during dengue infection may hinder the recovery process.
Caffeinated Beverages
Dengue fever causes dehydration and hence Dengue patients must drink plenty of fluids. Remember, caffeine, i.e. caffeinated beverages can revive the gastronomical tract, leading to nausea and diarrhea.
Besides, this type of beverage can increase the symptoms and production of stomach acid and cause rapid heart rate, and muscle breakdown which can hinder the dengue recovery process.
Read Should You See a Therapist? 8 Surefire Signs You Need Help
Bottom Line
Dengue is a curable disease but a little carelessness can cause serious issues and lead to death also. Hence, you need to be conscious about taking food and drinks. We have discussed here the foods and drinks to eat and avoid during dengue fever for quick recovery. Hope it helps!
Dengue Fever: Symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention
The Aedes mosquito causes dengue fever. If you are bitten by a mosquito that carries the dengue virus, you will get dengue fever. The infection should not be neglected. If Dengue fever progresses to a severe stage, it can threaten life. This article will discuss the symptoms, treatments, home remedies, and preventions for dengue fever.
What is Dengue?
Dengue is a viral infection that is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. The disease is found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, and it is estimated that there are over 400 million cases of Dengue each year. The virus that causes Dengue is called DENV, and there are four DENV serotypes. It is possible to be infected four times with the virus.
However, there is no specific treatment for Dengue, but it can be prevented by protecting against mosquito bites. The Aedes mosquito typically lays its eggs in standing water, so removing sources of standing water can help to reduce the risk of dengue transmission.
Read Conjunctivitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Signs of Dengue Fever
There are some symptoms to look for to know whether it is dengue fever or not. Such as feeling cold, loss of appetite, body aches, headache, pain in the eyes, lower back pain, muscle pain, joint pain, rash, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and skin-eye redness.
In the first few hours of dengue infection, pain is felt in the legs and joints. Fever can rise very quickly to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Heart rate and blood pressure are low during this time. A red or pink rash may appear on the face, which then disappears.
High fever and other dengue symptoms last for 2-4 days, and then the body temperature drops rapidly with sweating. Body temperature remains normal for about a day before the second rapid rise in fever, and feels healthy. Later, an itchy rash appears all over the body except the face. The palms of the hands and soles of the feet may be bright red and swollen.
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Severe Symptoms of Dengue
Sometimes dengue infection is very serious or fatal. It is called severe Dengue. Symptoms of severe Dengue appear 3-7 days after the initial symptoms of Dengue. People who have been infected with Dengue before are at higher risk of severe Dengue.
The main symptoms of severe Dengue are severe abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, vomiting blood, bleeding from the gums, bleeding under the skin, difficulty or rapid breathing, feeling cold or sweating, rapid pulse, and drowsiness/loss of consciousness. If you see the symptoms of severe Dengue, you should go to the emergency department of the hospital without a moment's delay.
How to Diagnose Dengue Fever
If you see any dengue symptoms or have a serious fever, you should consult a registered doctor for further investigations. Not every fever is Dengue. Self-diagnosed for Dengue leaves other common causes of fever, such as pneumonia, urinary tract infection, typhoid, flu, etc., undiagnosed.
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Patient's signs, symptoms, and physical examination data can help to diagnose the disease. However, results may vary from the first day to the next 10 days of dengue fever in different tests. So, self-testing can be confusing. Therefore, it would be wise to let the doctor understand first.
Doctors initially diagnose Dengue through NS1, CBC, IgG, and IgM. A maximum of Tk. 500 can be charged for the dengue NS1 Antigen test. A maximum of Tk. 400 can be taken for CBC (RBC + WBC + Hematocrit) test. Apart from this, IgG and IgM tests should be done within 500 Takas.
Treatment and Home Remedies of Dengue Fever
There is no specific treatment for dengue fever, but there are ways to ease the symptoms. Pain relievers, rest, and fluids can help to reduce fever and pain. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary in order to receive intravenous fluids and close monitoring.
Read Why do Mosquitoes bite me so much?
At the initial stage, take rest and drink plenty of water or liquid food. If the body is hydrated, headaches and muscle pain will be reduced. Drink coconut water, lemon juice, fruit juice, and saline at home.
Paracetamol can be taken to reduce the fever. However, a doctor's consultancy is needed if the patient has heart, liver, and kidney-related complications.
Aspirin, Clofenac, and Ibuprofen-like medicines should not be taken for body pain when suffering from dengue fever. Taking such medicines during Dengue can cause bleeding.
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What not to do
Platelets are no longer a key factor in dengue fever. There is no need to worry about the platelet count. If the platelet count falls below 10,000 or if there is bleeding from any part of the body, platelets or fresh blood can be given if necessary. However, such situations are very rare.
Many people say that eating papaya leaf juice etc. increases platelets. Actually, these have no role. After the fever subsides, platelets begin to grow by themselves after the crisis period has passed. At the end of the fever, the blood pressure may drop, or there may be bleeding from the gums, nose, or rectum. If this is the case, intravenous saline may be needed. In these cases, hospital admission is required.
When to go to the hospital
In the case of Dengue, what kind of treatment to take, staying at home or in a hospital, depends on its type or category. There are three types or categories of dengue fever - 'A,' 'B,' and 'C.' Patients in the first category are normal. They only have a fever. Most dengue patients are in the 'A' category. They do not require hospitalization. Resting at home is enough.
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Category 'B' dengue patients may require hospitalization. Certain symptoms, such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diabetes, obesity, pregnancy, congenital problems, and kidney or liver problems, are recommended for hospitalization.
Category 'C' dengue fever is the worst. It can damage the liver, kidneys, and brain. In some cases, an intensive care unit or ICU may be required.
So, you have to follow the doctor's instructions.
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Dengue Fever Season in Bangladesh
Generally, the dengue outbreak occurs from July to October in Bangladesh, as the Aedes mosquito spreads during this period. But we have to be careful throughout the year as in some years; Dengue started in June.
Preventive Measures for Dengue Fever
The Aedes mosquito usually lays its eggs in clear water. So, make sure water does not stay for more than three to five days. This water can accumulate anywhere. Aedes mosquitoes breed in the water collected on the roof of the house or in the flower tub of the balcony, at various points of the building under construction, tires lying on the side of the road, or in other containers.
So, check if there is any stagnant water in any places around the house. Also, use mosquito nets and spray in the house. Additionally, use mosquito repellent cream while going out or staying at home.
Read Should You See a Therapist? 8 Surefire Signs You Need Help
Final Words
In Bangladesh, the Dengue death toll is rising every year. Especially in the cities and towns, many inhabitants are being affected by Dengue fever. Some prevention measures for Dengue can minimize the spread of the disease.
However, all fevers are not Dengue. So, make sure you know the sign and symptoms of Dengue Fever to determine if you have it or not. You may also get affected by viral fever too. So far, we have discussed the diagnosis process of Dengue fever. Proper consultations with doctors are essential to avoid serious medical conditions. If proper treatment for Dengue fever is provided the patient can be cured.
5 Sundarbans eco resorts to experience world’s largest mangrove forest
Beyond the luscious greenery and eye-soothing forestry, Sundarbans is also the largest mangrove forest in the world. Situated in the southwestern end of Bangladesh, the forest comprises over 10,000 square kilometers of unaltered forest. Of this, over 6,000 square kilometers are situated in Bangladesh part.
Every year, there’s a high influx of tourists in the post-monsoon and early winter seasons. Naturally, several eco-parks and resorts have been built to cater to the growing number of tourists each year. Let’s look at some of the best eco-resorts in Sundarbans which can be an ideal stay for your visit to the world’s largest Mangrove forest.
5 Popular Eco Resorts in Sundarban
Harbaria Eco Park
The first one on the list is Harbaria Eco Park. The place was first established as a tourism center back in 2010. Subsequently, the area was expanded to make way for the eco-park. The place itself is situated deep within the forest area on the opposite bank of the Sundarbans.
Read Sundarbans reopens to tourists, fishermen after 3 months
Tourists can easily visit the eco-park from the Mongla Port downstream through the Rupsha river.
There is a large open area to embrace the scenic beauty of the Sundarbans. Moreover, the wanderlusts can easily hop onto one of the watch towers of Sundarbans to experience the surrounding majestical panoramic views.
Iraboti Eco Resort and Research Center
Iraboti Eco Resort offers some of the best cottage experiences in the greater Sundarban Area. Moving away from the main Rupsha river, the cottage is nestled upstream on the Goran tributary.
Read Sundarbans to have 4 more eco-tourism centres
The resort itself also serves as a research center for Sundarban wildlife. On the river end, several cottages are arranged facing the deep jungle of Sundarban right across the river. The cottage also has its own boats for touring the mangrove forest.
The tourists can easily spot hordes of monkeys and deer as they move along the bank. And if it's a lucky day, the travellers might even see the royal Bengal Tiger.
Iraboti has a standard package of single cottage housing 4 people for 4000 BDT per day. The rate is standard for all the cottages with food expenses charged separately.
Read Sundarbans tourism: Now focus on automation to improve services
Anne de Henning’s rare photos of Bangladesh’s birth, Bangabandhu to have Paris exhibition
The exhibition ‘Witnessing History in the Making: Photographs by Anne de Henning’ — produced by Samdani Art Foundation and Centre for Research and Information — is travelling to Guimet Museum of Asian Art in Paris.
The exhibition will be held from October 19, 2022 to January 23, 2023 in partnership with Asia Now Paris Art Fair and Guimet Museum of Asian Art, according to a press release.
The first iteration of the exhibition was held in Dhaka from December 10, 2021 to March 31, 2022 to celebrate 50 years of Bangladesh’s independence.
The exhibition will present rare, never before seen images by French photographer Anne de Henning, curated by Ruxmini Reckvana Q Choudhury.
Between 1971 and 1972 the photojournalist captured the birth of the nation and her remarkable private archive of unseen photographs is a unique record of the pivotal years which saw East Pakistan transform into Bangladesh.
A Bangladeshi flag gifted by freedom fighters to Anne de Henning in 1971 will also be displayed at the exhibition.
The earliest set of photographs from 1971 cover Anne’s first visit to the country at the age of 25. At that time, in the early days of conflict in April, the Pakistani authorities in Dhaka were not letting foreign journalists into the country.
This was obviously to keep them from reporting on the atrocities they were perpetrating on the civilian population after having launched Operation Searchlight on March 26, 1971.
Travelling through the country during the Liberation War, her photographs captured life in the war zone – from freedom fighters to men, women and children boarding refugee trains and fleeing from their villages.
In her powerful images the humanity of her subjects is combined with the grit of traditional photojournalism.
Taken on her second visit to the country, Anne’s photographs from 1972 feature Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who, all his life, worked to decolonise the nation away from the rules of British and Pakistan towards democracy and freedom.
Anne captured Bangabandhu giving a speech at the first Council Meeting of Awami League after the independence of Bangladesh. ‘I came specifically from Calcutta to photograph the event,’ she said. Although at the time Anne favoured shooting in black and white, she chose to capture this event in colour because of the vibrant blue, white and red stripes of the shamiyana — ceremonial tent —that housed the event.
Images of Bangabandhu were systematically destroyed after the coup of 1975 and her surviving colour photographs are among the few ones known to still exist.
In addition to images of Anne’s travels throughout Bangladesh, the exhibition brings together other works from her archive including photographs taken in India and her coverage of the Vietnam War.
Number of visa applications in Bangladesh up by 160%: VFS Global
The number of visa applications from Bangladeshis were up by 160 percent in September this year compared to the same period last year.
This information regarding international travel from Bangladesh was revealed in a closed group session arranged by VFS Global, the largest visa outsourcing and technology service provider for diplomatic missions worldwide.
The organisation recently arranged a programme to disclose the information.
VFS Global’s South Asian COO (Chief Operating Officer) Prabuddha Sen disclosed the information in a written statement.
Soubhik Mitra, General Manager (Corporate and Communication) of the organization and other officials were present at the event.
From Bangladesh, there is an abnormally high demand for and predisposition towards international travel. Additionally, there are more visa applications than ever before. These are the reasons behind it, Prabuddha Sen said.
He also said that one of the causes of this trend is lifting international travel restrictions following the pandemic.
Data provided by VFS Global said the volume of visa applications has increased compared to the first 9 months of 2021. Visa applications increased by 160 percent till September 2022.
The data showed that the volume of visa applications in 2022 was the same as in the pre-pandemic period.
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Stark political, religious polarization in India making its way into US diaspora
A bulldozer, which has come to represent repression of India’s Muslim minority, rolled down the street in Edison, New Jersey, during a procession celebrating the country’s Independence Day. People celebrating the occasion and those who went up to denounce violence against Muslims in India got into a yelling match at an event in Anaheim, California.
Indian Americans from diverse religious backgrounds have lived in harmony in the United States for many years. But these recent developments in the United States, along with violent clashes between some Hindus and Muslims in Leicester, England, last month, have raised worries that India’s extreme political and religious divisiveness is seeping into its expatriate groups.
In India, Hindu nationalism has surged under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party, which rose to power in 2014 and won a landslide election in 2019. The ruling party has faced fierce criticism over rising attacks against Muslims in recent years, from the Muslim community and other religious minorities as well as some Hindus who say Modi’s silence emboldens right-wing groups and threatens national unity.
Hindu nationalism has split the Indian expatriate community just as Donald Trump’s presidency polarized the U.S., said Varun Soni, dean of religious life at the University of Southern California. It has about 2,000 students from India, among the highest in the country.
Soni has not seen these tensions surface yet on campus. But he said USC received blowback for being one of more than 50 U.S. universities that co-sponsored an online conference called “Dismantling Global Hindutva.”
The 2021 event aimed to spread awareness of Hindutva, Sanskrit for the essence of being Hindu, a political ideology that claims India as a predominantly Hindu nation plus some minority faiths with roots in the country such as Sikhism, Jainism and Buddhism. Critics say that excludes other minority religious groups such as Muslims and Christians. Hindutva is different from Hinduism, an ancient religion practiced by about 1 billion people worldwide that emphasizes the oneness and divine nature of all creation.
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Soni said it’s important that universities remain places where “we are able to talk about issues that are grounded in facts in a civil manner,” But, as USC’s head chaplain, Soni worries how polarization over Hindu nationalism will affect students’ spiritual health.
“If someone is being attacked for their identity, ridiculed or scapegoated because they are Hindu or Muslim, I’m most concerned about their well-being — not about who is right or wrong,” he said.
Anantanand Rambachan, a retired college religion professor and a practicing Hindu who was born in Trinidad and Tobago to a family of Indian origin, said his opposition to Hindu nationalism and association with groups against the ideology sparked complaints from some at a Minnesota temple where he has taught religion classes. He said opposing Hindu nationalism sometimes results in charges of being “anti-Hindu,” or “anti-India,” labels that he rejects.
On the other hand, many Hindu Americans feel vilified and targeted for their views, said Samir Kalra, managing director of the Hindu American Foundation in Washington, D.C.
“The space to freely express themselves is shrinking for Hindus,” he said, adding that even agreeing with the Indian government’s policies unrelated to religion can result in being branded a Hindu nationalist.
Pushpita Prasad, a spokesperson for the Coalition of Hindus of North America, said her group has been counseling young Hindu Americans who have lost friends because they refuse “to take sides on these battles emanating from India.”
“If they don’t take sides or don’t have an opinion, it’s automatically assumed that they are Hindu nationalist,” she said. “Their country of origin and their religion is held against them.”
Both organizations opposed the Dismantling Global Hindutva conference criticizing it as “Hinduphobic” and failing to present diverse perspectives. Conference supporters say they reject equating calling out Hindutva with being anti-Hindu.
Some Hindu Americans like 25-year-old Sravya Tadepalli, believe it’s their duty to speak up. Tadepalli, a Massachusetts resident who is a board member of Hindus for Human Rights, said her activism against Hindu nationalism is informed by her faith.
“If that is the fundamental principle of Hinduism, that God is in everyone, that everyone is divine, then I think we have a moral obligation as Hindus to speak out for the equality of all human beings,” she said. “If any human is being treated less than or as having their rights infringed upon, then it is our duty to work to correct that.”
Tadepalli said her organization also works to correct misinformation on social media that travels across continents fueling hate and polarization.
Tensions in India hit a high in June after police in the city of Udaipur arrested two Muslim men accused of slitting a Hindu tailor’s throat and posting a video of it on social media. The slain man, 48-year-old Kanhaiya Lal, had reportedly shared an online post supporting a governing party official who was suspended for making offensive remarks against the Prophet Muhammad.
Hindu nationalist groups have attacked minority groups, particularly Muslims, over issues related to everything from food or wearing head scarves to interfaith marriage. Muslims’ homes have also been demolished using heavy machinery in some states, in what critics call a growing pattern of “bulldozer justice.”
Such reports have Muslim Americans afraid for the safety of family members in India. Shakeel Syed, executive director of the South Asian Network, a social justice organization based in Artesia, California, said he regularly hears from his sisters and senses a “pervasive fear, not knowing what tomorrow is going to be like.”
Syed grew up in the Indian city of Hyderabad in the 1960s and 1970s in “a more pluralistic, inclusive culture.”
“My Hindu friends would come to our Eid celebrations and we would go to their Diwali celebrations,” he said. “When my family went on summer vacation, we would leave our house keys with our Hindu neighbor, and they would do the same when they had to leave town.”
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Syed believes violence against Muslims has now been mainstreamed in India. He has heard from girls in his family who are considering taking off their hijabs or headscarves out of fear.
In the U.S., he sees his Hindu friends reluctant to engage publicly in a dialogue because they fear retaliation.
“A conversation is still happening, but it’s happening in pockets behind closed doors with people who are like-minded,” he said. “It’s certainly not happening between people who have opposing views.”
Rajiv Varma, a Houston-based Hindu activist, holds a diametrically opposite view. Tensions between Hindus and Muslims in the West, he said, are not a reflection of events in India but rather stem from a deliberate attempt by “religious and ideological groups that are waging a war against Hindus.”
Varma believes India is “a Hindu country” and the term “Hindu nationalism” merely refers to love for one’s country and religion. He views India as a country ravaged by conquerors and colonists, and Hindus as a religious group that does not seek to convert or colonize.
“We have a right to recover our civilization,” he said.
Rasheed Ahmed, co-founder and executive director of the Washington D.C.-based Indian American Muslim Council, said he is saddened “to see even educated Hindu Americans not taking Hindu nationalism seriously.” He believes Hindu Americans must make “a fundamental decision about how India and Hinduism should be seen in the U.S. and the world over.”
“The decision about whether to take Hinduism back from whoever hijacked it, is theirs.”
Zafar Siddiqui, a Minnesota resident, is hoping to “reverse some of this mistrust, polarization” and build understanding through education, personal connections and interfaith assemblies. Siddiqui, a Muslim, has helped bring together a group of Minnesotans of Indian origin — including Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and atheists — who meet for monthly potlucks.
“When people sit down, say, over lunch or dinner or over coffee, and have a direct dialogue, instead of listening to all these leaders and spreading all this hate, it changes a lot of things,” Siddiqui said.
But during one recent gathering, some argued over a draft proposal to at some point seek dialogue with people who hold different views. Those who disagreed explained that they didn’t support reaching out to Hindu nationalists and feared harassment.
Siddiqui said that for now, future plans include focusing on education and interfaith events spotlighting India’s different traditions and religions.
“Just to keep silent is not an option,” Siddiqui said. “We needed a platform to bring people together who believe in peaceful co-existence of all communities.”