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Bangladesh on Sunday (April 5, 2026) launched an emergency vaccination marketing campaign focusing on extra than one million kids as a fast-spreading measles outbreak sweeps throughout the nation.
Well being Ministry figures present there have been 17 confirmed deaths from measles to date, with 113 suspected deaths and greater than 7,500 suspected infections nationwide.
The marketing campaign, led by the Well being Ministry with help from UNICEF, the World Well being Group and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, started in 18 high-risk districts, in line with a joint press launch.
Youngsters aged six months to 5 years are being prioritised, significantly those that missed routine immunisation and face the very best danger of extreme problems.
“UNICEF is deeply involved in regards to the sharp rise in measles circumstances throughout Bangladesh, placing 1000’s of kids, particularly the youngest and most susceptible, at severe danger,” mentioned Rana Flowers, the charity’s consultant to Bangladesh.
“This resurgence highlights essential immunity gaps,” she mentioned.
Hospitals in a number of high-burden areas are already overcrowded and working with restricted capability, elevating issues about additional unfold.
The World Well being Group informed Reuters that the outbreak, which now spans 56 of Bangladesh’s 64 districts, would proceed to unfold within the coming days however would doubtless be curtailed quickly after the vaccination marketing campaign is rolled out.
“This marketing campaign will assist stop additional tragic lack of younger lives,” mentioned Dr. Ahmed Jamsheed Mohamed, the group’s consultant to Bangladesh.
Officers mentioned the emergency vaccination drive will complement routine immunisation efforts as authorities work to include the outbreak.
Printed – April 05, 2026 11:05 pm IST
