All children under 5 to get measles-rubella vaccine

All children aged between six months and 59 months, regardless of their previous vaccination status, will get measles-rubella vaccine in the emergency campaign that begins Sunday, Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain said on Saturday.

Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry of Health ahead of the campaign launch, the minister said the initiative aims to strengthen child immunisation efforts across the country.

He emphasised that the immediate priority is to address current challenges rather than investigate past declines in vaccination coverage. “We must save our people and our children,” he said.

The minister iterated that all children within the targeted age group will be brought under the campaign, whether previously vaccinated or not, to ensure broader protection for vulnerable groups.

Responding to concerns over a shortage of ICU beds in children’s hospitals amid a recent surge in patients, he said existing capacity is under pressure. While expanding ICU facilities remains challenging, the government is closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures.

He added that discussions are underway with relevant authorities to arrange alternative support for critically ill patients, with efforts ongoing to find a prompt solution.

Among others, State Minister for Health Dr MA Muhith, public health expert Dr Zia Haider, Health Secretary Kamruzzaman Chowdhury, and Professor Dr Prabhat Chandra Biswas were present at the event.

SUJ/MHK