Dhaka, Apr 08 (V7N) — The government has confirmed that the stock of measles vaccines in Bangladesh remains stable, with a nationwide vaccination campaign set to begin on April 20.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Hossain made the announcement in Parliament on Wednesday while responding to a question from Rumin Farhana.

The minister stated that although vaccine management had previously faced challenges due to alleged negligence during the tenure of the Awami League and the interim government, the current administration has taken effective steps to overcome the situation. He assured that there is no shortage of measles vaccines at present.

According to the minister, a total of 2.19 crore doses of measles vaccines have already been received, with additional stock available. To ensure transparency and avoid delays, the government is procuring vaccines directly from UNICEF, bypassing the conventional tender process.

He also urged Members of Parliament and the public not to create unnecessary panic regarding measles.

Earlier, the minister had announced that vaccination activities would begin on April 12 in selected urban areas, including Dhaka’s two city corporations, Mymensingh City, and Barisal City Corporation, with a nationwide rollout planned for May 3.

However, the latest announcement confirms that the countrywide measles vaccination campaign will now commence earlier, on April 20.

END/SMA/AJ