Govt fully prepared to prevent measles, vaccination from Sunday: health minister

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain today (2 April) said the incumbent government is fully prepared to prevent measles, with nationwide vaccination scheduled to begin from Sunday. 

He said this while talking to reporters after inaugurating a training programme on 'the use of bubble CPAP in the treatment of measles-related pneumonia and respiratory problems' at Dhaka Shishu Hospital in the capital's Sher-e-Bangla Nagar area.

Sakhawat Husain said measles has emerged suddenly. "However, within a short time, we are now fully prepared to prevent measles. Measles vaccination will begin across the country on Sunday next. I am shocked by the death of so many children," he said. 

The health minister said all necessary measures have been taken to prevent the outbreak of measles across the country, including Dhaka and Rajshahi. 

In the meantime, he said, special measures have been taken in some hospitals for measles treatment. 

The number of ventilators has been increased in Rajshahi and Manikganj, he said, adding that doctors and nurses are also prepared. 

Seeking cooperation of health workers at this critical time of the country, Sakhawat Husain said, "We are already aware that our health workers are facing many problems. I promise you; I will try to resolve all your problems as soon as possible." 

He said about 1,306 health assistants engaged in vaccination have not received salaries for a long time, which is a major concern. There are more than 25,000 health assistants, co-health assistants and inspectors, whose promotions are pending. 

"I want to assure them that I will call their representatives today or tomorrow and try to resolve the matter. My only request is that they give their full cooperation during this national emergency," he said. 

Referring to the contribution of doctors, Sakhawat Husain asked doctors to provide healthcare to patients following medical ethics.