The government is set to roll out a nationwide emergency measles-rubella vaccination campaign beginning from Sunday, April 5, amid a growing outbreak of measles in several parts of the country.
Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain made the announcement in a press conference held at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday, April 4
According to the Health Ministry, the campaign will initially be launched in 30 high-risk upazilas across 18 districts identified as outbreak hotspots. These areas have reported a higher incidence of measles cases in recent weeks, prompting urgent intervention.
The government plans to expand the vaccination drive nationwide in phases, with the objective of completing the campaign by May 21, 2026, ahead of Eid al-Adha.
Health officials stated that all children under the age of five will be brought under this campaign, regardless of whether they have previously received the MR vaccine. The decision follows recommendations from national and international experts, including the National Immunisation Technical Advisory Group (NITAG), aimed at rapidly increasing immunity levels among vulnerable children.
On the opening day, the Health Minister will launch the campaign in Nawabganj, while other officials, including MA Muhith, will oversee activities in different regions such as Cox’s Bazar, Pabna, Jhalakathi, and Gazipur. Civil surgeons and local representatives will lead operations in other designated hotspots.
The campaign is being carried out through coordinated efforts involving the Ministry of Health, the Directorate General of Health Services, and development partners. Officials confirmed that vaccine supplies, cold chain logistics, and training for healthcare workers have all been completed in preparation for the rollout.
The Health Ministry has advised parents to temporarily defer vaccination for children who are currently ill or experiencing fever, recommending that they receive the vaccine once they have fully recovered.
In addition to vaccination, children diagnosed with or suspected of having measles will be administered Vitamin A capsules, which are known to reduce the severity of the disease and prevent complications.
Authorities have emphasised the importance of public cooperation for the success of the campaign. Parents and caregivers are being urged to bring eligible children to designated vaccination centers.
The government has also called on the media, local leaders, and community influencers to actively disseminate accurate information and counter misinformation regarding vaccines.
Health officials reiterated that the MR vaccine being used in the campaign is safe, effective, and internationally approved. They stressed that widespread participation in the campaign is essential to preventing further spread of measles and protecting public health.
The emergency vaccination drive marks a significant public health response aimed at containing the outbreak and strengthening immunisation coverage across the country.
SUJ/MHK