Government begins Typhoid vaccination drive for children across the country
Typhoid affects nearly 5 lakh people in Bangladesh annually, claiming around 8,000 lives, mostly children under 15
From 12 October, the government will provide free typhoid vaccination across the country for children aged 9 months to 15 years. Prof Dr Md Abu Jafor, director general of Health Services, shared the information today at a press conference on the "Typhoid Vaccination Campaign-2025."
The vaccination campaign will run for a total of 18 working days. During the first ten days, all students from primary to ninth grade or equivalent in every educational institution across the country will receive the vaccine at their respective schools.
In the following eight days, the vaccination will continue at both permanent and temporary EPI (Expanded Program on Immunisation) centers.
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The vaccine provides protection for five years, and its efficacy is higher compared to other vaccines available in the market.
Dr Jafor said the target is to vaccinate 49 million children aged 9 months to 15 years. Currently, the government has 55.4 million doses of the vaccine.
The press conference also noted that, according to the latest data, 8.927 million children have registered for the typhoid vaccine. Parents are urged to register their children as soon as possible.
Registration can be completed at www.vexepi.gov.bd using a 17-digit birth registration number. After registration, a digital vaccination card will be issued, which will be required to receive the vaccine at the designated centers.
Dr Jafor emphasised that this is the first time the government is providing a single dose of the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) free of cost. The World Health Organization (WHO) is assisting in the campaign.
He further explained that typhoid is not just a fever; it can lead to numerous complications. Without timely and proper treatment, patients may develop long-term issues such as gallbladder inflammation, liver problems, and even brain complications. There is no part of the body that typhoid cannot affect.
Citing data from the Global Burden of Disease, Dr Jafor said that approximately 477,000 people in Bangladesh suffer from typhoid each year, with nearly 8,000 deaths. Around 68% of these cases are children under 15 years of age.
He advised parents to ensure children eat properly before vaccination, as skipping breakfast may cause mild discomfort after receiving the vaccine.
Side effects may include arm pain, redness, mild headache, or slight fever. He added, "We have instructed children to stay under observation after vaccination to monitor any reactions."
Addressing concerns about religious compliance, Dr Jafor said the government has confirmed the vaccine is halal. The vaccine has already been administered to millions of children in other countries in the subcontinent.
