Dhaka:The country's Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) faced significant disruption due to mismanagement and negligence by previous governments, according to State Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr MA Muhit.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Muhit made these remarks at the conclusion of a workshop on the 'Joint Independent Review 2026 of EPI and VPD Surveillance in Bangladesh' held at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel. He emphasized that despite these past challenges, the current government has managed to vaccinate over 2 crore children in the last seven months through intensive efforts.
He noted that Bangladesh's EPI program was once highly regarded globally for protecting children from premature deaths and disabilities, reaching even remote and marginalized areas. However, a measles outbreak shortly after the current government took office highlighted the prior mismanagement's impact.
Dr Muhit stressed the importance of addressing the remaining challenges in the immunization program, as the measles outbreak is not yet fully controlled. He assured that the government would provide necessary support, including additional personnel and resources, to strengthen the program and encouraged health workers to be proactive at the grassroots level.
Expressing optimism, Dr Muhit believes that Bangladesh's immunization program can regain its former acclaim through collective and coordinated efforts.