Bangladesh Health Minister Sardar Md. Shakhawat Hossain stated that measles patients are receiving all internationally recognized forms of treatment. Speaking to reporters on Friday at the DNCC Covid-19 Hospital in Mohakhali, Dhaka, he said the government is making maximum efforts despite multiple challenges. He noted that 98 percent vaccination coverage has been achieved and that the government managed to secure measles vaccines in a short time. If the situation worsens, hospital capacity will be expanded.

The minister said that Gavi, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization have acknowledged Bangladesh’s rapid vaccine procurement for a large population. He added that doctors are working tirelessly and that the government started with no ventilators or vaccines left by the previous administration. Following the Prime Minister’s directive, ventilators have now been supplied nationwide, and ten new ICU units will open in ten districts next Tuesday.

He further mentioned that malnutrition is a major factor behind measles vulnerability. Vitamin A campaigns have resumed, with large supplies expected from UNICEF by June 10 to improve child nutrition and immunity.