Published: 12:20 AM, 21 May 2026
UNICEF warned interim government about measles 'several times'
UNICEF Bangladesh Representative Rana Flowers (left) speaks at a press conference held at the UNICEF office in Dhaka on Wednesday (20 May 2026). -UNICEF
UNICEF had warned the Ministry of Health in at least five letters about a possible vaccine shortage during the interim government period. In addition, it also cautioned government officials in 10 meetings. This information was shared on Wednesday (May 20) afternoon at a press conference titled "Measles Outbreak and Ongoing Response Activities" held at UNICEF Bangladesh's office in the capital.
UNICEF Bangladesh Representative Rana Flowers spoke at the event. According to UNICEF data, between August and November last year, Bangladesh received 17.8 million doses of measles vaccine, which is only one-third of the country's total requirement. Bangladesh needs about 70 million vaccine doses every year, but due to insufficient supply, the routine immunization program has been disrupted for a long time.
This long-term disruption in routine immunization has left many children unvaccinated, increasing the risk of measles infection in the country and ultimately leading to a large-scale outbreak.
UNICEF stated that this crisis was not due to a lack of funds, but rather delays in the procurement process that prevented timely vaccine acquisition. However, the organization also said that the situation is now beginning to improve.
Rana Flowers added, "The good news is that more than 18 million children have received measles vaccines. Measles is under control."
