Power minister in hospital with pneumonia

Power and Energy Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud has been admitted to hospital with fever, breathing difficulties and a cough. 

He is now stable and, on medical advice, will remain in hospital for several more days under close observation.

Professor Dr CM Shahin Kabir gave the update at a press conference on Wednesday.

The 76-year-old minister arrived at the emergency department of Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital and Research Institute in the capital at 9.40 pm on Tuesday. 

Initial tests showed breathing difficulty and low blood oxygen levels. He was later moved to the coronary care unit.

A hospital statement said that after treatment in the emergency department a three-member medical board was formed. Blood tests and a chest X-ray led doctors to begin treatment for pneumonia in the lungs.

A new medical board drawn from various specialties was constituted around 9 am on Wednesday. Treatment is continuing under its guidance and further tests are being carried out as required.

The minister already has diabetes and high blood pressure. A stent was fitted in a coronary artery in Bangkok a few days ago. Doctors say he needs to stay in hospital for complete treatment and observation.