Bangladesh to Include Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine in National Immunization Program Starting August 1
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Bangladesh’s health authorities are set to integrate the typhoid conjugate vaccine into the national Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), aiming to provide long-term protection for children against the disease. Starting August 1, all children aged 15 months will be eligible to receive a single dose of the vaccine at both permanent and temporary immunization centers across the country.
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) confirmed the initiative in a directive issued to divisional directors, civil surgeons, and health officials at the city corporation and upazila levels. This expansion follows the successful execution of the national typhoid conjugate vaccine campaign in 2025, which paved the way for the inclusion of the vaccine based on recommendations from the National Immunization Technical Advisory Group and the Inter-Agency Coordinating Committee.
বিজ্ঞাপন
According to the new operational guidelines, the vaccine can be administered simultaneously with the second dose of the MR vaccine. Field workers have been instructed to conduct door-to-door screenings to identify target populations, determine vaccine demand, and ensure all eligible children are reached during scheduled sessions. Digital integration remains a cornerstone of the rollout, with officials emphasizing the use of the VaxEPI app for registration and the Smart Health BD/E-Tracker app for real-time data updates. Local coordination meetings are also being organized to streamline birth registration processes for vaccine eligibility.
Regarding vaccine management, the DGHS stated that five-dose vials will be utilized, requiring storage and transport temperatures between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. To minimize waste, health centers are directed to follow a multi-dose vial policy, allowing for the use of opened vials in subsequent sessions provided specific safety conditions are met.
বিজ্ঞাপন
Beyond the clinical implementation, the government is prioritizing public awareness campaigns to ensure high coverage. Health authorities have called for the active involvement of public representatives, educators, religious leaders, and community influencers to promote the program. Communication efforts will include door-to-door outreach, public address systems, and courtyard meetings to address parental concerns and underscore the importance of long-term immunity against typhoid.
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