Health Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Husain said Bangladesh has secured a record stock of vaccines within 24 days, assuring there is no current or future risk of shortages.
He made the remarks after receiving a consignment of measles-rubella vaccines from UNICEF at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Wednesday.
The minister said the latest shipment includes 1.5 million doses of vaccines, along with 9,000 doses of TD vaccines. He added that new consignments will arrive weekly to maintain supply.
He said 10.8 million doses of MR, TD, BCG, OPV and pentavalent vaccines are expected to arrive on May 10, which will further strengthen the national stock. The government aims to build a secure buffer stock by September.
Expressing gratitude to international partners including the World Health Organization and Gavi, he said their support has been crucial in ensuring steady supply.
The minister said 93 percent of the vaccination target set under the campaign launched on April 4 has already been achieved, with full coverage expected soon.
On measles prevention, he noted that immunity develops within three to four weeks after vaccination and that preparations are in place to manage any rise in cases.
Hospitals have been kept ready with additional beds, while a temporary facility has been prepared in Dhaka. A mobile hospital can also be deployed if needed, he added.
He said previous vaccine shortages were due to inadequate stock and irregular campaigns, but the situation has improved through recent government initiatives.
The minister also credited media awareness efforts for increasing public participation in the vaccination programme.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
