Measles Could Be Controlled by May: Health Minister

Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain has expressed optimism that the measles situation in the country could be fully brought under control by May, as the government accelerates its nationwide vaccination drive for children.

He made the remarks while speaking to reporters after visiting the 250-bed TB Hospital in Shyamoli on Thursday.

The minister said the government aims to bring 100 percent of children under measles vaccination coverage within the next week. So far, around 61 percent of children have been vaccinated, while several areas have already achieved full coverage.

He added that no new measles cases have been reported in the first 30 upazilas where the vaccination campaign was launched.

According to him, the programme was started ahead of schedule. Although the nationwide rollout was initially planned for 5 May, it was advanced by 14 days and began on 20 April.

Sakhawat Husain said no measles vaccination had been conducted for children over the past six years, which made the current campaign necessary on an urgent basis.

He also acknowledged support from international partners including UNICEF, Gavi the Vaccine Alliance, the World Bank, and the United States, saying the situation could have been far worse without their assistance.

On dengue preparedness, the minister said necessary measures have already been taken, including arrangements for setting up temporary medical tents, with installation set to begin at a university playground from Friday.

He stressed that prevention remains the top priority and urged city corporations to intensify mosquito control efforts.