Bangladesh launches measles drive amid deadly outbreak

Bangladesh commenced a nationwide measles-rubella vaccination campaign on September 26, 2026, to reach an estimated 3.4 million unvaccinated children. This initiative addresses the country's most severe measles outbreak, which has claimed over 1,000 lives and infected tens of thousands since March 15, 2026. The campaign focuses on children aged 6 months to 59 months who missed earlier immunizations.

The current outbreak has highlighted critical gaps in routine childhood immunisation, exacerbated by disruptions in 2024 and 2025 due to political turmoil and postponed vaccination drives. This vulnerability led to widespread transmission, particularly among infants under nine months who were too young for routine vaccination.

Authorities have administered nearly 20 million doses through emergency campaigns since April, yet substantial immunity gaps persist. Health experts emphasize that reaching every eligible child in this latest effort is crucial for slowing transmission, preventing severe outcomes, and breaking the chains of infection across Bangladesh.