Mass vaccination begins in measles hotspots across Bangladesh

Bangladesh has launched a targeted measles-rubella vaccination campaign across selected high-risk areas as health authorities move to contain a recent increase in infections among children.

The programme, which began on Sunday morning, is being rolled out in 30 upazilas across 18 districts identified as hotspots for measles transmission. It focuses on children aged between six months and just under five years, including those who may have already received earlier doses of the vaccine.

Health officials say the campaign is part of an intensified response to prevent further spread of the disease, particularly in areas where recent outbreaks have been reported. Vaccinations are being administered daily from morning until late afternoon at designated centres, as well as in schools and community locations to improve access.

The initiative was formally launched by Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain at a health complex in Dhaka district. Speaking at the event, he said the current situation remained under control and urged the public not to panic, while emphasising the importance of vaccination in limiting transmission.

Authorities have advised that only children in good health should receive the vaccine, with those experiencing illness or fever encouraged to wait until recovery. In such cases, supportive care, including vitamin A supplementation, is being provided where appropriate.

The selected areas include districts and sub-districts across multiple regions, reflecting a geographically dispersed pattern of recent infections. Officials say the targeted rollout will gradually be expanded nationwide, with plans to integrate the campaign into routine immunisation services by mid-year.

Public health experts view the programme as a critical step in reinforcing childhood immunisation coverage, particularly as Bangladesh seeks to prevent further complications associated with measles outbreaks, including severe respiratory conditions.

The campaign comes amid heightened attention to infectious disease control, with authorities aiming to ensure both immediate containment and longer-term resilience in the country’s public health system.