Measles Crisis: Bangladesh's Emergency Immunisation Drive

Bangladesh is confronting a critical measles outbreak, prompting an urgent nationwide immunisation campaign to control the disease's spread. This year, over 674 measles cases have been confirmed, with 38 child fatalities reported, primarily in Dhaka and surrounding areas. The health ministry's investigation, supported by the WHO, confirmed these deaths.

The outbreak stems from declining vaccination rates, falling to 59.6% last year, well below the 95% required to prevent transmission. To address this, the government has lowered the vaccination age to six months and plans to immunise children aged six months to 10 years. This expanded campaign targets high-risk, densely populated urban areas, especially the northwestern Rajshahi region.

Previously, the first measles vaccine dose was administered at nine months and the second at 15 months. The decision to vaccinate from six months was made after identifying a significant portion of cases in infants under this age. The campaign aims to reverse the trend of interrupted regular vaccination programs, which were affected by political unrest, strikes, and funding issues.