Bangladesh launches emergency measles vaccination drive as deaths top 100
Bangladesh launches emergency measles vaccination drive as deaths top 100
Bangladesh kicks off an urgent measles-rubella vaccination push with UN backing as cases surge and vaccine shortages complicate efforts.
Bangladesh is confronting its worst measles outbreak in years, with more than 100 children dead and over 900 confirmed cases since March. In response, the government, in partnership with the United Nations, has launched an emergency measles-rubella vaccination drive targeting children aged six months to five years in high-risk districts, with plans to expand nationwide. The push aims to curb the spread as health workers stage vaccination booths in clinics and schools.
Measles is highly contagious and can cause fever, respiratory symptoms and a rash. Experts say the outbreak reflects gaps in the vaccination programme, with a long-standing shortage of vaccine stockpiles and perceived mismanagement in previous years. Health officials say achieving at least 95% immunity is essential to stop transmission, and the emergency drive will focus on underserved areas where children are most at risk.
The campaign comes amid a global resurgence of measles, as rates rise in several countries due to vaccine hesitancy and access challenges. Officials say the Bangladesh drive will begin this month and gradually broaden to cover the entire country. Health workers will conduct door-to-door outreach, run immunisation camps, and coordinate with local leaders to ensure children receive the vaccine before the next festival season.
While the outbreak has drawn international attention, there is a practical, hopeful path forward: rapid immunisation can dramatically reduce illnesses and deaths, but only if vaccines reach every eligible child. With UN support and a renewed commitment from the government and communities, Bangladesh hopes to turn the tide and protect the most vulnerable during a challenging period for public health.
