BD launches first-ever free typhoid vaccination campaign for children

Bangladesh has launched its first national typhoid vaccination campaign, aiming to immunise about 50 million children aged between 9 months and 15 years free of charge.

Health and Family Welfare Advisor Nurjahan Begum officially inaugurated the programme at the Sir Salimullah Muslim Orphanage Centre in Dhaka’s Azimpur around 9:30 am on Sunday morning.

Social Welfare Advisor Sharmeen S Murshid was also present at the event.

“Children in the country still die of typhoid; it is a shame,” Nurjahan said at the inauguration.

“Bangladesh fights against many diseases including diarrhoea and night blindness. This time, it will also be successful in preventing typhoid.”

She added that typhoid is a disease that can be completely controlled through awareness and vaccination.

“If we can reach every child through this programme, then it will be possible to practically stop typhoid deaths in the country. This initiative will further strengthen our public health system,” she said.

Nurjahan emphasised that preventing disease can ease the burden on hospitals.

“Our biggest goal now is disease prevention. The more people, especially children, can be brought under preventive vaccinations, the more the crowding and pressure on hospitals will be reduced,” she said.

Advisor Sharmeen described the vaccination campaign as an important milestone for Bangladesh.

“This programme will open new horizons in our child health protection. Typhoid has remained a silent menace for a long time, especially for children from low-income families. This time, this government initiative will bring about a big change in that vulnerable area. I hope everyone will participate consciously and ensure their children are vaccinated,” she said.

This year's programme is the first national typhoid vaccination campaign in Bangladesh.

Under the programme, children will receive a single dose of the injectable vaccine. The initiative is being carried out with the support of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.