Health Desk Report – To combat the recent outbreak of measles, the government has launched a nationwide emergency vaccination campaign today, Monday (April 20, 2026). The initiative aims to vaccinate approximately 18 million children aged between 6 and 59 months.
Inauguration by Health Minister Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Hossain officially inaugurated the program at the ‘Little Angel Seminary’ in Zinda Park, Rupganj, Narayanganj.
Speaking at the event, the minister emphasized the importance of ensuring every eligible child receives the vaccine to prevent the spread of these infectious diseases.
Campaign Schedule and Locations Vaccines will be administered at all permanent and temporary vaccination centers across the country starting from 8:00 AM daily, excluding weekly holidays.
According to Hasanul Mahmud, Assistant Director of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI):
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City Corporation Areas: The drive will continue until May 20.
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Other Districts/Upazilas: The campaign will run until May 12.
The current phase covers 30 upazilas across 18 districts and four major city corporations (Dhaka North, Dhaka South, Barishal, and Mymensingh).
Who Should and Should Not Get the Vaccine?
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued specific guidelines for parents and guardians:
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Eligible: All children aged 6 to 59 months.
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Sick Children: Children currently suffering from fever or other acute illnesses should wait until they are fully recovered before taking the vaccine.
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Timing: If a child has received a dose of the measles vaccine recently, a gap of at least four weeks must be maintained before taking this emergency dose.
This massive undertaking is part of the government’s proactive strategy to achieve a measles-free status and ensure the long-term health of the next generation.