Bangladesh Launches Urgent Measles Vaccination Drive Amid Rising Outbreak

Bangladesh has initiated a targeted vaccination effort following a measles outbreak linked to over 100 suspected deaths, predominantly among children. This marks what could be the nation’s most severe measles wave in recent years. The campaign commenced on Sunday, responding to more than 7,500 suspected cases since March 15, as per health ministry records. Of these, 900 have been confirmed, a significant jump from the 125 cases reported nationwide in 2025, according to local media.

Vaccination Program Challenges

Despite long-standing efforts to immunize children, the recent surge has exposed flaws in the country’s routine vaccination system. Rana Flowers, Unicef’s representative in Bangladesh, emphasized in a statement that vaccines are critical for child survival, warning that the current outbreak poses a serious threat to thousands of young patients. Notably, one-third of those infected were under nine months old, who are not yet eligible for standard immunizations, she added.

“Vaccines are foundational to child survival,” said Rana Flowers. “The current measles outbreak is putting thousands of children, especially the youngest and most vulnerable, at serious risk.”

Shahriar Sajjad, deputy director of the Health Department, revealed that the absence of special measles campaigns since 2020—due to the pandemic and political instability—has contributed to the crisis. Bangladesh’s political turmoil in 2024, which saw anti-government protests remove long-serving leader Sheikh Hasina, delayed critical initiatives. An interim government took charge afterward, and it wasn’t until February this year that a new administration was elected.

Global Measles Trends

Worldwide, measles remains a deadly threat. The WHO reported that 95,000 fatalities were attributed to the disease in 2024, with most victims under five. While global cases have plummeted over the past two decades—from 38 million in 2000 to 11 million in 2024—the organization warns of a resurgence as vaccination rates decline. The Lancet noted that 2024 and 2025 saw the highest number of outbreaks in over 20 years, particularly in regions like Asia and Africa.

The emergency campaign, launched in collaboration with Unicef and the WHO, focuses on measles and rubella. It targets over 1.2 million children aged six months to five years across 30 upazilas. Priority will be given to those who missed routine shots and are at greater risk of complications. Dhaka and Cox’s Bazar, areas with dense populations and refugee camps, are key locations for the drive.

Health authorities are also distributing infographics to help communities recognize and prevent measles. The disease spreads through airborne transmission and can lead to severe complications. Unicef highlights that maintaining 95% vaccination coverage is essential to halt its spread, underscoring the need for rapid action to close immunity gaps caused by disruptions in the program.