Measles crisis rooted in past policy failures; collective action needed: Dr. Ziauddin Haider

Public health expert and BNP Chairperson’s adviser Dr. Ziauddin Haider has said Bangladesh’s current measles crisis is the result of past policy failures, delayed decisions, and weak implementation in the health sector.

He made the remarks on Sunday (April 5) at the inauguration of an emergency measles-rubella vaccination programme at Nalchiti Upazila Health Complex in Jhalakathi.

“Bangladesh was once recognised globally for its success in primary healthcare, vaccination programmes, and family planning. It is unfortunate that we are now facing a measles crisis due to earlier policy weaknesses and lack of timely action,” he said.

Dr. Haider warned that even a single child’s death from measles must be seen as a collective failure.

“This is not the failure of one institution. It is a failure of all of us—and a national shame. The government, health sector stakeholders, and the public must act together to overcome this crisis,” he added.

He said the outbreak did not occur suddenly but is the result of long-term gaps, including delays in vaccine procurement, weak immunisation drives, and poor field-level implementation. The situation has worsened in high-risk and underserved areas where vaccination coverage remains low.

Dr. Haider said the current government has begun taking urgent steps, including coordinating with international partners to procure and distribute vaccines and strengthening public awareness campaigns to prevent panic.

He added that high-level discussions have been held with international organisations to assess the situation, prioritise high-risk areas, and improve healthcare system capacity.

Authorities are also focusing on hospital preparedness, isolation facilities, and strengthening medical management. Health institutions have been instructed to quickly identify suspected cases and ensure proper treatment.

“Bangladesh has successfully tackled public health challenges in the past. With strong leadership, swift decisions, and effective implementation, this measles outbreak can also be controlled,” he said.

Among others present were Barisal Divisional Health Director Dr. Shyamal Krishna Mondal, Jhalakathi Civil Surgeon Dr. Mohammad Humayun Kabir, District Council Administrator Advocate Md. Shahadat Hossain, Additional Deputy Commissioner Md. Kawsar Hossain, and Nalchiti Upazila Executive Officer Shegufta Mehnaz.