Children’s health top priority in nationwide measles-rubella vaccination drive: State minister
According to the district civil surgeon’s office, the campaign aims to vaccinate approximately 28,000 children aged six months to under five years in Gazipur.
State Minister for Health and Family Welfare MA Muhith today (5 April) said the government has launched a nationwide measles-rubella vaccination campaign, prioritising the health of every child in the country.
"The government is giving utmost priority to protecting children's health. Special vaccinations have already started in 30 upazilas across 18 districts. In a few days, the programme will also begin in Dhaka, Mymensingh, Barishal, and other city corporations," he said while inaugurating the vaccination campaign at the Bhawal Mirzapur union parishad grounds in Gazipur.
Speaking at the event, Muhith said, "Measles is a highly contagious disease, with complications being much higher in children. However, the disease can be effectively prevented through vaccination.
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"Vaccinations have now started in areas with higher measles prevalence, and the programme will gradually continue in other areas. No child will be left out."
He added, "Every step is being taken based on scientific data, following the advice of expert committees and in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Unicef."
He reassured parents that no child would be left out of vaccination coverage, saying, "There is no reason to fear. The government has begun work responsibly, and there will be no shortage of vaccines.
"Areas facing shortages are being quickly replenished, and necessary measures have already been taken to ensure the supply of vaccines for measles prevention, with support from various international health organisations."
Muhith also said that public awareness and participation are crucial for the success of the campaign.
According to the district civil surgeon's office, the campaign aims to vaccinate approximately 28,000 children aged six months to under five years in Gazipur.
Over the next 15 days, the programme will be conducted across Sadar, Tongi, Konabari, Kashimpur, Kaliakair, Sreepur, Kapasia, Kaliganj, and Pubail.
