Measles cases are reportedly rising across the country, with an increasing number of deaths being recorded daily.
Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain has attributed the situation to low vaccination coverage in previous years, blaming earlier administrations for gaps in immunization efforts.
In response, the government has swiftly arranged additional measles vaccine supplies and launched a nationwide special immunization campaign.
However, concerns have been raised regarding eligibility criteria for vaccination during the ongoing drive.
Speaking to Dhaka Tribune on Saturday, public health expert and preventive medicine specialist Dr Lelin Chowdhury said that children suffering from cold, cough, or fever should not be vaccinated.
He further noted that the measles vaccine should also be deferred if four weeks have not passed since the first dose.
Health experts have cautioned that administering vaccines to children who are not in stable physical condition may increase the possibility of side effects. They recommend that vaccination be carried out only after full recovery and in accordance with the prescribed schedule.
Physicians emphasize that while vaccination remains essential for protecting children against highly contagious diseases such as measles, it is equally important to ensure that recipients are medically fit and that immunization guidelines are strictly followed to ensure safety and effectiveness.