A major disruption in routine immunization efforts during Bangladesh’s interim government period from August 2024 to February 2026 has raised growing concerns among public health experts, after the country missed its scheduled nationwide measles vaccination campaign.
The mass measles immunization drive, typically conducted every four years, was not held during the period. The last campaign took place in 2020, leaving millions of children without the additional protection usually provided through the nationwide effort.
Health sector sources say vaccine stockpiles gradually became depleted as procurement processes slowed significantly under the interim administration. At the same time, tens of thousands of healthcare worker positions reportedly remained vacant, putting additional strain on already weakened vaccination and primary healthcare services.
Public health experts warn that delays in mass immunization campaigns can increase the risk of measles outbreaks, particularly among children in vulnerable and low-income communities. They say routine immunization systems depend heavily on timely vaccine procurement, trained personnel, and coordinated nationwide campaigns.
Concerns have also been raised over the broader condition of Bangladesh’s healthcare system during the transition period, with analysts pointing to administrative instability, staffing shortages, and logistical failures as contributing factors behind the missed campaign.
Health officials are now under pressure to restore vaccine supplies, fill vacant posts, and organize a nationwide catch-up immunization program to prevent future outbreaks and rebuild confidence in public health services.
