Measles Outbreak: Jabs drive begins
State Minister for Health Dr MA Muhit on Sunday emphasised the importance of vaccinating all children to protect them from measles and ensure their overall health.
The government is taking swift and proactive measures to maintain adequate vaccine supplies, address any shortages, and prevent a potential crisis, he added.
The state minister made the remarks while inaugurating an emergency measles-rubella vaccination programme at the Bhawal Mirzapur Union Parishad grounds in Gazipur Sadar upazila.
Highlighting the support of several global health organisations, Dr Muhit called for active public participation to ensure the campaign’s success.
Local MPs M Manjurul Karim Roni and SM Rafiqul Islam, the district deputy commissioner, the civil surgeon, and representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF attended the launch.
Their presence underscored the collaborative nature of the campaign, combining government efforts with international support.
According to the civil surgeon’s office, the programme aims to vaccinate children aged 6 to 59 months, with approximately 28,000 doses scheduled to be administered in Gazipur over the next 15 days.
Vaccination activities are being conducted across Sadar, Tongi, Konabari, Kashimpur, Kaliakair, Sreepur, Kapasia, Kaliganj, and Pubail areas to ensure comprehensive coverage.
The initiative is part of a broader campaign launched simultaneously across 30 upazilas in 18 districts nationwide, including Gazipur.
Officials say the coordinated drive seeks to curb the spread of measles and rubella, prevent potential outbreaks, and improve overall child health indicators.
Dr Muhit stressed that the government is committed to addressing all logistical challenges promptly.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure there is no shortage of vaccines and that every child who is eligible receives timely protection,” he said.
Health authorities highlighted the critical role of community participation in the programme.
Parents and guardians are urged to bring their children to the designated vaccination centres and follow the guidance of local health workers.
The WHO and UNICEF representatives attending the programme reiterated their support, providing technical guidance and helping ensure that the campaign meets international standards.
They emphasised that mass immunisation is a proven method to protect children from preventable diseases and to reduce morbidity and mortality rates.
Officials also noted that the emergency campaign complements ongoing routine immunisation efforts and is part of the government’s commitment to universal child health coverage.
By reaching out to both urban and rural populations, the drive aims to close immunisation gaps and prevent future outbreaks.
As the vaccination programme continues over the coming weeks, authorities have pledged continuous monitoring and reporting to ensure transparency and effectiveness.
The government also plans follow-up campaigns to maintain immunity levels and safeguard children’s health against measles and rubella.
