Government Approves Tk 4.12 Billion Vaccine Purchase via UNICEF Amid Measles Crisis

Amid a rising number of measles infections and deaths across the country, the government will purchase vaccines directly from UNICEF. The Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase (CCGP) has approved an allocation of Tk 4.12 billion to procure the necessary vaccines for the current fiscal year.

According to a Finance Ministry statement, the committee finalized the decision during a meeting at the Secretariat on Wednesday (June 10). Data from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) highlights the severity of the outbreak. Since March 15, 92 people have died from confirmed measles cases, while another 539 have died with measles-like symptoms—bringing the total to 631 deaths over the past three months.

During this period, hospitals admitted 66,170 patients with symptoms, of which 62,292 have been treated and discharged.The outbreak hit shortly after the current BNP-led government assumed office, creating an immediate public health challenge. It has also brought renewed scrutiny to vaccine management under the previous interim government.UNICEF’s Representative in Dhaka, Rana Flowers, recently addressed the crisis, noting that the agency had repeatedly warned the previous administration. She revealed that UNICEF sent five to six letters to the Health Ministry under Muhammad Yunus’s interim government, cautioning them about an impending vaccine shortage. Additionally, they held at least 10 meetings with government officials to urge preventive measures.

Historically, Bangladesh procured vaccines directly through UNICEF until 2024, largely utilizing funds from development partners. However, in 2025, the procurement process was shifted to the revenue budget and an open-tender system, which contributed to supply delays. The government has now reverted to direct procurement to expedite deliveries. During Wednesday's meeting, the CCGP also approved the purchase of 212 double-cabin pickups for police operations, alongside proposals to procure fertilizer, gasoline, and furnace oil.