Children aged between six months and five years are being vaccinated based on expert recommendations, Prof Dr Foara Tasmin, additional director general (Planning and Development) of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), has said.
“The incidence of measles is highest among children in this age group. Even if they have been vaccinated first, we are bringing them under booster doses again,” she said.
She made the remarks while speaking as chief guest at a workshop held at the National Media Institute on Thursday, aimed at raising public awareness amid a sharp rise in measles infections.
Emphasising the role of the media, she highlighted its importance in strengthening routine immunisation programs, raising parental awareness and countering misinformation. She expressed hope that the preventable disease could be brought under control through coordinated efforts.
The workshop, organised in collaboration with Unicef, was presided over by National Media Institute Director General Muhammad Hiruzzaman. Around 50 journalists from print, electronic and online media participated.
Discussions at the workshop focused on the current measles situation, infection risks, preventive measures and the media’s role in awareness-building.
In his remarks, Hiruzzaman said measles infections are increasing at an alarming rate in the country, with children being the most affected.
“Today’s children are the citizens of tomorrow—it is our responsibility to ensure their well-being,” he said, urging the media to play a more active role in disseminating accurate and responsible information.
Dr Binod Kumar Bura, regional IVD coordinator for South-East Asia at the World Health Organization (WHO), said the outbreak has been largely brought under control due to the government’s swift response. He also highlighted the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine and encouraged vaccination.
Dr Riyad Mahmud, programme manager at Unicef, said coordinated efforts by the government, development partners and the media are essential to control preventable diseases like measles.
Participating journalists pledged to share accurate and verified information on measles and called for the continuation of such training programmes. Experts also responded to various queries, stressing the importance of fact-based reporting.