Bangladesh launches emergency vaccination campaign

Bangladesh launched an emergency vaccination campaign targeting more than a million children as a fast-spreading measles outbreak sweeps across the country.



Health ministry figures show there have been 17 confirmed deaths from measles so far, with 113 suspected deaths and more than 7,500 suspected infections nationwide.



The campaign, led by the health ministry with support from UNICEF, the World Health Organization and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, began in 18 high-risk districts.



Children aged six months to five years are being prioritised, particularly those who missed routine immunisation and face the highest risk of severe complications.



“UNICEF is deeply concerned about the sharp rise in measles cases across Bangladesh, putting thousands of children, especially the youngest and most vulnerable, at serious risk,” a statement from Rana Flowers, the charity's representative to Bangladesh.