MJF expresses alarm over measles outbreak affecting children
Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing measles outbreak, describing it as a serious public health crisis that continues to put children at risk despite being preventable.
In a press statement today (23 April), the organisation said the situation threatens children's fundamental rights to health and life, calling for immediate and coordinated action from the authorities.
According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), a total of 28,334 suspected measles cases have been reported since 15 March this year, of which 4,059 have been confirmed.
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During the same period, 39 deaths from confirmed cases and 194 from suspected cases have been recorded, underscoring the severity of the outbreak.
The MJF noted that although a nationwide vaccination campaign targeting around 18 million children aged between six months and under five years began on 20 April, concerns remain over a shortage of testing kits and a prolonged halt in vaccine imports.
The prime minister has also acknowledged the issue in parliament, raising concerns that these limitations may hinder effective prevention efforts.
"It is unacceptable that children remain at risk from a preventable disease like measles," The MJF said, adding that the situation constitutes a violation of children's fundamental rights to survival, health, and protection.
The organisation urged the government to ensure the immediate availability of vaccines, testing, and treatment services, and to take accountable measures to address the crisis.
It also highlighted that delays in vaccination, inadequate healthcare services, and weak monitoring systems are further complicating the outbreak.
The MJF called for expanding the vaccination campaign, ensuring an adequate supply of measles-rubella vaccines and testing kits, providing quality treatment for affected children, and maintaining transparency and accountability in managing the situation.
"Protecting children's lives and health must be a top national priority," the organisation said, adding that it stands ready to support awareness efforts alongside the government.
