The government of Bangladesh is set to launch the country’s first nationwide typhoid vaccination program. Beginning on October 12, nearly five million children aged between nine months and under 15 years will receive free injectable typhoid vaccines.
Parents and guardians are required to register their children at https://vaxepi.gov.bd/registration/tcv using the child’s 17-digit birth registration number. Once registered, they can directly download the vaccine card using the birth certificate.
Several common questions have arisen regarding the vaccination:
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Can children with typhoid fever receive the vaccine?
No. Children must be fully recovered before receiving the typhoid vaccine. -
If a child has previously received a typhoid vaccine, is a dose still required?
Yes. Children aged nine months to under 15 years, even if vaccinated previously, must receive one dose during the campaign. -
Can children who miss vaccination on the scheduled school day receive it later?
Yes. Children absent on the designated school day can visit any permanent or regular EPI vaccination center during the campaign period to receive the vaccine. -
Are there opportunities to receive the vaccine if missed at the community level?
Yes. Children can receive the vaccine at any EPI center nationwide during the campaign. -
Are there side effects associated with the typhoid vaccine?
Experts say minor reactions may occur, such as mild pain at the injection site or slight fever, but no serious side effects are expected.
At a press conference held on October 9 at the Secretariat, Special Assistant Professor Dr. Md. Sayedur Rahman, Senior Adviser to the interim government, confirmed that the vaccine has been tested and approved by the World Health Organization. It has been successfully used in 21 countries worldwide.
He emphasized that there is no reason to fear the vaccine. On the contrary, it will provide long-term protection to children across Bangladesh.
