Govt wasn't ready for recent measles outbreak: Minister

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain Bakul has acknowledged that the government had no prior preparedness for the recent measles outbreak, describing the situation as "like a lightning strike".

Speaking on Thursday, the minister said the outbreak emerged unexpectedly, prompting an immediate public health response. Earlier, at a press conference at the Secretariat on Wednesday, he announced that a nationwide emergency measles vaccination programme would be launched to contain the emerging situation.

"The government is going to start a nationwide measles vaccination programme on an emergency basis," he said, adding that children aged six months to 10 years would be brought under the special campaign to curb the spread swiftly.

He further said that, under the directive of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, a "National Emergency Vaccination Programme" would be implemented within the shortest possible time. "Direct vaccination work will start from next Sunday at field level," he said.

Claiming the scale and speed to be unprecedented, the minister stated, "No such major vaccination campaign has been conducted in such a short time in history." He added that the Ministry of Health had completed preparations to deliver vaccines and necessary equipment to all upazilas by Friday and Saturday.

On procurement, he said the process of purchasing vaccines from UNICEF was at its final stage and that existing shortages were being addressed on a priority basis. "All government departments have been instructed to work in a coordinated manner in this emergency situation," he added.

The minister urged parents to cooperate with the campaign. "Parents should raise awareness and bring their children to the nearest vaccination centre as soon as possible," he said.

He also emphasised that despite the sudden onset of the outbreak, the government remains committed to safeguarding public health. "Although this situation has come suddenly, the government is determined to ensure the safety of children with its utmost capacity," he said.

Health authorities expressed optimism that the spread of the virus would be contained once the vaccination drive begins at the field level. Citizens have been advised not to panic and to follow official health guidelines.