Measles outbreak will take time to subside despite vaccination drive: Information advisor

The unrelenting spread of measles in Bangladesh will take time to come under control despite ongoing vaccination efforts, Information and Broadcasting Advisor Zahed Ur Rahman has said.

Explaining the delay, he said immunity does not develop immediately after vaccination, particularly among children, bdnews24.com reports. 

Speaking at a press briefing organised by the information ministry at the Secretariat on Wednesday, Zahed said the nationwide vaccination campaign began on Apr 5 and is continuing, but immediate improvement should not be expected.

“A section of children was previously outside vaccination coverage. This reflects a past failure. Even so, we cannot accept the tragic deaths of children under any circumstances,” he said.

He added that hospitals have been instructed to ensure the highest level of preparedness to treat infected patients.

“There are resource constraints. When many people need the same services, especially ICU care, the situation becomes complicated. The government is making its best efforts to manage the situation properly,” he said.

Asked whether action would be taken against those responsible for lapses in vaccination coverage, including health officials under the interim government, Zahed said all negative incidents are being thoroughly reviewed.

“Just as the causes of an aeroplane crash are investigated to ensure safer flights in future, we are examining this issue seriously,” he said.

Referring to criticism over remarks by the health minister, he said such scrutiny is understandable but urged empathy.

“We can understand his feelings. He could not accept the deaths of so many children. It is not something anyone can tolerate,” Zahed said.

He stressed that measles is a preventable disease and deaths from it are unacceptable.

“I am a doctor. People have learnt to prevent many diseases so that no one dies from them. Not a single child should die from a disease like this. If someone dies from a preventable disease, it is unforgivable,” he said.

He contrasted this with diseases like cancer, which may develop undetected, saying measles had previously been effectively controlled through vaccination.

Highlighting the importance of preventive healthcare, Zahed said both the prime minister’s agenda and the BNP’s 31-point outline emphasise preventive medicine.

“Vaccination is a form of prevention, and we will carry out this task at any cost,” he said.