WHO urges urgent vaccination drive as measles risk remains high in Bangladesh

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for immediate action to curb the ongoing measles outbreak in Bangladesh, warning that continued spread is likely without stronger surveillance, faster response systems, and improved vaccination coverage.WHO recommended ensuring at least 95% coverage with both doses of the measles-containing vaccine across all municipalities alongside strengthening integrated surveillance systems to quickly detect suspected cases in public and private healthcare facilities.Special emphasis has been placed on high-traffic border areas, where enhanced monitoring is needed to rapidly identify and respond to suspected infections.The agency also stressed the importance of deploying trained rapid response teams and activating national protocols to contain imported cases and prevent the re-establishment of endemic transmission. Close coordination between national and local authorities is considered essential.During outbreaks, WHO advisee strict hospital management measures, including isolating patients and minimizing contact with others to prevent in-hospital transmission.Vaccination efforts should prioritise high-risk groups such as healthcare ...

• 25 Apr 2026