A nationwide Vitamin A capsule distribution campaign will be conducted on 28 June, marking its resumption after a long pause, with the government aiming to reach more than 2.35 crore children across Bangladesh.
The programme, organised by the Institute of Public Health Nutrition, will cover a total of 2,35,14,972 children aged between six and 59 months. Officials say the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to improve child nutrition and prevent Vitamin A deficiency-related health complications.
According to the campaign plan, 28,38,794 children in the age group of six to 11 months will be provided with blue Vitamin A capsules. Meanwhile, a significantly larger group of 2,05,76,178 children aged between 12 and 59 months will receive red capsules.
Director of the Institute of Public Health Nutrition Dr Mohammad Yunus Ali said preparations for the nationwide exercise are already well underway. He confirmed that around 1,20,000 vaccination and distribution centres have been set up across the country to facilitate smooth implementation. In addition, 500 mobile centres have been arranged to reach children in hard-to-access and remote areas.
He also said that the required stock of Vitamin A capsules has already reached the authorities, while the remaining supply is expected to arrive shortly. He urged parents and guardians to take their children to the nearest designated centres to ensure they receive the supplements on time.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain, speaking at an event in Dhaka on Tuesday, said the government has resumed the national Vitamin A campaign after a prolonged suspension. He called on all stakeholders involved in the programme to work with sincerity and coordination to ensure its success and maximum coverage.
