9 Chittagong Wards Identified as Measles-Rubella ‘Hotspots’

Nine wards in Chittagong city have been identified as measles-rubella “hotspots” due to a comparatively higher risk of infection.

The wards are: Jalalabad (Ward 2), Chandgaon (Ward 4), Uttar Pahartali (Ward 9), Lalkhan Bazar (Ward 14), Purba Baklia (Ward 18), Alkaran (Ward 31), South Madhyam Halishahar (Ward 38), South Halishahar (Ward 39), and Uttar Patenga (Ward 40).

Authorities have decided to strengthen vaccination activities in these areas. Special “mop-up” teams have also started door-to-door visits to identify children who were left out of the vaccination campaign.

The information was shared at a coordination meeting on the measles-rubella vaccination campaign held at the Chittagong City Corporation office in Tiger Pass.

Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain said around 94 percent of the vaccination target in the city corporation area has already been achieved. The month-long campaign began on April 20 and will continue until May 20.

He instructed officials to ensure all remaining children are vaccinated before the campaign ends.

According to the mayor, the target was to vaccinate 328,500 children. So far, 279,520 children have received the vaccine.

“We hope to achieve the target within the remaining days of the campaign,” he said.

He added that the intensified campaign was launched following a rise in measles infections across the country. “Measles is a serious viral disease that weakens a child’s immune system and can lead to pneumonia, diarrhea, malnutrition, and even death,” he said.

The mayor emphasized that no child should be left out of the vaccination drive. He also directed authorities to continue evening vaccination sessions to help working parents.

Officials were further instructed to prepare lists of unvaccinated children and conduct door-to-door awareness campaigns, including public announcements.