Bangladesh launches emergency vaccination campaign as measles outbreak spreads
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Children aged six months to five years are being prioritised in the campaign, particularly those who missed routine immunisation.
PHOTO: REUTERS
DHAKA - Bangladesh on April 5 launched an emergency vaccination campaign targeting more than one million children as a fast‑spreading measles outbreak sweeps across the country.
Health Ministry figures show there have been 17 confirmed deaths from measles so far, with 113 suspected deaths and more than 7,500 suspected infections nationwide.
The campaign, led by the ministry with support from UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance began in 18 high-risk districts, according to a joint press release.
Children aged six months to five years are being prioritised, particularly those who missed routine immunisation and face the highest risk of severe complications.
“UNICEF is deeply concerned about the sharp rise in measles cases across Bangladesh, putting thousands of children, especially the youngest and most vulnerable, at serious risk,” said Ms Rana Flowers, the charity's representative to Bangladesh.
“This resurgence highlights critical immunity gaps.”
Hospitals in several high-burden regions are already overcrowded and operating with limited capacity, raising concerns about further spread.
WHO told Reuters that the outbreak, which now spans 56 of Bangladesh’s 64 districts, would continue to spread in the coming days, but would likely be curtailed soon after the vaccination campaign is rolled out.
Dr Ahmed Jamsheed Mohamed, the group’s representative to Bangladesh, said: “This campaign will help prevent further tragic loss of young lives.”
Officials said the emergency vaccination drive will complement routine immunisation efforts as the authorities work to contain the outbreak. REUTERS
