Bangladesh extends nationwide lockdown due to record COVID-19 cases and deaths

Bangladesh on Monday saw 164 new coronavirus deaths and 9,964 infections, its biggest daily rise since the pandemic began.

DHAKA: Bangladesh on Monday extended its strictest lockdown to July 14 to combat a surge in coronavirus cases led by the highly contagious Delta variant, with areas bordering India taking the brunt of infections. The south Asian country reported 164 new coronavirus deaths on Monday, its biggest daily rise since the pandemic began, taking the death toll to 15,229. It also reported the highest-ever number of new daily infections at 9,964, with the total standing at 954,881. Hospitals are overwhelmed with coronavirus patients, particularly in districts bordering India where the Delta variant was first identified. Bangladesh sealed its border with India in April, but the trade continues.