Khulna Medical College Hospital (KMCH) in Bangladesh is currently facing severe overcrowding as it manages a surge in dengue cases. The facility, which has a capacity of 500 beds, is treating nearly 1,933 patients, forcing staff to provide care in all available spaces, including corridors, stairways, and verandas.

The hospital’s critical situation is compounded by staffing shortages. Of the 278 sanctioned doctor positions, 18 remain vacant, and there are also significant gaps in nursing and support staff. These shortfalls are placing additional pressure on the existing personnel, making it challenging to deliver adequate care to patients.

Patients are experiencing a lack of basic amenities such as beds and fans due to the overwhelming number of admissions. The congested conditions not only reduce comfort but also heighten the risk of further dengue transmission within the hospital.

KMCH was originally established in 1989 with 250 beds and later expanded to 500 beds in 2008. However, hospital infrastructure and resources have not kept pace with the increasing demand, resulting in the current strain on facilities and staff.

Hospital officials have acknowledged the ongoing challenges and said they are working to meet patient needs despite limited resources. The dengue outbreak underscores broader healthcare capacity issues amid rising patient volumes in the region.