Dhaka: Health Secretary M Quamruzzaman Chowdhury today announced that government efforts are actively underway to address the measles crisis, a situation he attributes to mishandling over the past four years. Speaking at a health seminar in the capital, Chowdhury highlighted the interruptions in the vaccination program during this period as a key factor in the current outbreak.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chowdhury emphasized the errors of the previous administration in managing the vaccination drives, which have led to the widespread transmission of measles across the nation. He underscored the necessity of a robust vaccination campaign, stating that if the campaign had been conducted effectively in recent years, the current crisis might have been avoided. The government is now focused on a nationwide vaccination initiative targeting children aged between 6 and 59 months.
The Health Secretary detailed plans to commence the vaccination campaign in Dhaka, Chattogram, Mymensingh, and Barishal starting tomorrow, with a comprehensive nationwide rollout slated for April 20. He assured that there is an adequate supply of the measles vaccine, and all eligible children will be included in the program, following guidance from research and advisory teams.
The seminar, organized by the National Institute of Neuroscience and Hospital, coincided with World Parkinson’s Day. Additionally, a separate event featuring a discussion and a colorful procession took place at Suhrawardy Medical College to mark the occasion.