Measles vaccination campaign to begin nationwide on April 20: Health Minister

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain has announced that a nationwide measles vaccination campaign will begin on April 20, assuring that there is no shortage of vaccines in the country.

He made the remarks on Friday during a press briefing at the ministry’s conference room at the Secretariat.

“There is no shortage of vaccines in the country, including those for tuberculosis and measles. People should not pay attention to rumours or misinformation,” the minister said.

The health minister added that a mass measles vaccination drive will be launched across the country from April 20 as part of routine immunisation efforts. He also urged the public to ignore false information circulating regarding vaccine availability.

He confirmed that vaccines for tuberculosis, including those for two variants, are sufficiently stocked. He further said anti-rabies vaccines are also available in adequate supply.

Addressing broader public health preparedness, the minister noted that the country has sufficient stocks of syringes for the next six months, with additional supplies of vaccines and syringes in the pipeline.

He also commented on dengue preparedness and management, stressing coordination with city corporations to control the outbreak.

The minister reiterated that continuous monitoring is in place to ensure uninterrupted vaccine supply and effective immunisation coverage nationwide.