Govt allocates Tk 604cr for measles vaccine procurement

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Mohammad Sakhawat Hossain said that the government has allocated Tk 604 crore to purchase measles vaccines to combat the recent rise in measles cases. 

He added that no measles vaccines had been administered over the past eight years under previous government, contributing to the current public health challenge.

The minister made these remarks on Sunday while inaugurating the three-day 17th Asia Pharma Expo 2026 and Asia Lab Expo 2026 at Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center at Purbachal of Rupganj upazila in Narayanganj district.

Additionally, five ventilators have been arranged through private initiatives, with four to be sent to Rajshahi. As measles cases continue to increse, ICU facilities have been prepared at major hospitals, including Children’s Hospital, Dhaka Medical College Hospital and DNCC Dedicated Hospital.

He also highlighted the importance of collective action against corruption, stating that safeguarding the future of the next generation requires ensuring transparency and accountability within the health ministry.

Others present at the event included State Minister for Health Dr. MA Muhith, Health Secretary Md. Kamruzzaman Chowdhury, Vice Chairman of Export Promotion Bureau Mohammad Hasan Arif and Director General of Directorate General of Drug Administration Major General Md. Shamim Haider.

SM/SH