20 Million Children Vaccinated Against Measles-Rubella, Target Set for Another 3.5 Million

Health State Minister Dr Mohammad Abdul Muhit has said that around 20 million children across Bangladesh have already been vaccinated under the measles-rubella immunisation programme. The government is now working to bring another 3.5 million children under the campaign within the next month, he said.

The state minister made the remarks at an event organised on Wednesday (October 7) to mark the measles-rubella vaccination campaign.

He said the government is working to address the challenges involved in rebuilding the country’s healthcare system. Alongside expanding healthcare services, greater emphasis is being placed on preventive healthcare programmes and maintaining vaccination activities.

According to the state minister, the government has not stopped the campaign after vaccinating 20 million children. The objective is to ensure that no child is left without protection, which is why a “mop-up campaign” is now being conducted.

Under the campaign, efforts are being made to identify and vaccinate children living in remote areas, children with disabilities and those who were missed during previous vaccination phases for various reasons. Health workers are working at the grassroots level to reach children in every household.

The government expects to vaccinate another 3.5 million children within the next month, the state minister said. Efforts are also continuing to reach children living in remote hill areas and isolated char regions.

He expressed gratitude to the US government, Gavi, UNICEF, city corporations, health workers and other field-level personnel for their cooperation in implementing the campaign.

The state minister said the progress achieved so far has been possible through collective efforts. He added that the government would continue working with domestic and international organisations and the public to fulfil its commitments to improving healthcare.