Bangladesh is set to launch its first-ever nationwide typhoid vaccination campaign on Sunday, October 12. The month-long immunization drive will continue until November 13, aiming to administer a single injectable dose of the typhoid vaccine to nearly 50 million children aged between nine months and under 15 years, completely free of cost.
Children without birth certificates will also be eligible to receive the vaccine under this campaign, marking a milestone in the country’s public health program. This is the first typhoid vaccination campaign of its kind in Bangladesh. The vaccine has been developed by the Serum Institute of India and provided to the Bangladesh government through Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
Professor Md. Sayedur Rahman, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser of the Interim Government and acting State Minister for Health, told reporters that the vaccine is approved by the World Health Organization and is completely safe. “This vaccine has already been administered in Nepal, Pakistan, and eight other countries without any reported cases of major side effects,” he said.
According to the Ministry of Health, all students from pre-primary to ninth grade, or equivalent levels, will receive one dose of the vaccine during the campaign. Vaccinations at educational institutions will continue until October 30.
Beyond schools, children aged nine months to under 15 years who are not enrolled in educational institutions will be vaccinated through home visits. In urban areas, NGOs will facilitate the vaccination of street children to ensure no one is left behind.
The Health Ministry has set a target to vaccinate 49 million children nationwide. So far, 16.8 million children have already registered to receive the vaccine, and the registration process remains open.
Authorities have also made special arrangements for children without birth registration. Parents or guardians of such children can complete registration at their nearest vaccination center with the assistance of local health workers.
Officials emphasized that the government’s goal is to build strong immunity among children against typhoid, a waterborne disease that continues to pose significant public health risks in Bangladesh. This campaign marks a major step forward in preventing infectious diseases and ensuring equitable healthcare access for every child in the country.
