[object Object]

Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain has revealed a critical shortage of Vitamin A capsules, noting that distribution campaigns were not conducted during the recent interim government period. This lapse has led to a severe scarcity, impacting essential child health initiatives. The minister stated that while one campaign occurred in the first half of last year, no subsequent campaigns took place, leaving a significant gap in provision.

“

Vitamin A campaigns are supposed to be conducted twice a year. One campaign was held during the first half of last year, but after that no Vitamin A campaign took place and there is a severe shortage of Vitamin A capsules.

Addressing a seminar on measles and dengue prevention, the minister expressed optimism about an upcoming supply, with UNICEF expected to deliver over 10 million Vitamin A capsules by June 10. He has personally engaged with UNICEF to expedite both the Vitamin A and measles vaccine shipments. This influx of crucial supplies is anticipated to allow for the resumption of full-scale distribution among children once received.

“

We have already made the payment, and Unicef is expected to supply the Vitamin A capsules by June 10. I spoke to them four days ago and requested to provide the measles vaccine as quickly as possible.

The minister also drew a critical link between malnutrition and the severity of measles cases among children. He stressed the paramount importance of maternal nutrition and breastfeeding, urging healthcare professionals to enhance public awareness on these fronts. He noted that a lack of proper maternal nutrition can lead to various diseases mutating and reappearing in new forms. Furthermore, he highlighted Bangladesh's current dependence on foreign countries for vaccine production, expressing a desire to establish a domestic vaccine manufacturing unit. This situation underscores the vulnerability of relying on external suppliers for essential public health resources.

“

Bangladesh is expected to receive more than 10 million Vitamin A capsules within the next five to seven days, he also said, adding, “Once the supply arrives, we will begin full-scale distribution among children.”