An awareness discussion meeting aimed at increasing public understanding of measles vaccination was held in Rangpur on Saturday.
The programme was organised by Bashundhara Shuvosangho at Shishukoli Pre-Cadet School in the Kuthirpar area of the city.
Students of classes nine and ten took part in the event. Speakers discussed in detail the risks of measles, its symptoms, and the importance of vaccination in preventing the disease. They also urged students to spread awareness among their family members and people in their communities.
The meeting was chaired by Md Abdul Khaleq Sarkar, founder principal of Shishukoli Pre-Cadet School, Shibram.
Among those who addressed the event were teachers Md Anisur Rahman Anis, Md Jayez Uddin, Md Milon Mia, Md Saju Mia, Nazmul Khan, and Masud Mia.
Representatives of Bashundhara Shuvosangho Rangpur district unit also spoke, including General Secretary Md Rakibul Hasan Rakib, Social Welfare Secretary Sohag Das, Executive Member Robi Das, Joint Organising Secretary Md Faiyaz Ahmed Fahim, and Women Affairs Secretary Mosammat Sinha Akter.
Speakers said measles and rubella are highly contagious viral diseases that spread through coughing and sneezing. Measles is particularly dangerous for children and can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, diarrhoea, and blindness.
They said common symptoms of measles include fever, cough, red eyes, and red rashes on the body.
The speakers stressed that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the disease and that timely immunisation can protect children from infection.
At the end of the programme, students were given guidance on how to spread awareness messages among others.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM
