Over 5 million children to receive typhoid vaccinations; immunization program commences on September 1st.
In a significant move to combat typhoid infections, Bangladesh has announced the launch of a comprehensive vaccination campaign under the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI). The campaign targets children and adolescents aged between 9 months and 15 years, with the aim of providing free vaccinations to over five crore children across the nation.
The vaccination programme, set to begin on October 12, 2025, will span 18 working days. It will be conducted in two phases: the first phase will involve school-based vaccination camps for a period of 10 days, followed by a 8-day follow-up at EPI centres for children who miss the school sessions.
The vaccine used is a single-dose injection, offering protection for 3 to 7 years. This vaccine meets World Health Organization standards and has been safely used in other countries in the region.
For unregistered children, an online registration process started on August 1, 2025. Parents or guardians can register their children via (vaxepi.gov.bd/registration/tcv). After registering, they must download a vaccine card and bring it on the scheduled vaccination day. Children who miss the initial school-based vaccination have a second chance to be vaccinated at EPI centres during the second phase.
The vaccination programme is inclusive and accommodates children without birth registration cards. Parents of unregistered children can facilitate their children's vaccination by providing their mobile numbers for registration.
Dr Abul Fazal Mohammad Shahbuddin Khan, EPI Programme Manager, made this announcement while talking to journalists today. He emphasized that the vaccination campaign aims to significantly reduce typhoid infection rates nationwide.
However, it's important to note that the article does not provide any information on the source of the vaccines or the funding for the campaign. Additionally, no specific location for the vaccination campaign was mentioned, and no details were given regarding any potential side effects of the vaccines.
This comprehensive plan, with its flexible approach and inclusive nature, offers a promising step towards improving public health in Bangladesh.
Science has a crucial role in addressing health-and-wellness issues, as demonstrated by the new typhoid vaccination campaign in Bangladesh. This campaign, launched under the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), employs a scientifically validated single-dose vaccine that meets World Health Organization standards.
