Jabs for children below 12 after WHO approval: Zahid

Health Minister Zahid Maleque on Tuesday said Bangladesh would start vaccinating children aged below 12 after the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) approval.

Addressing a press briefing organised by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) at Bangladesh College of Physicians and Surgeons (BCPS) in the capital, he urged those aged 12 and above to take the first dose by February 26.

He said the government had completed all preparations to administer 10 million doses on February 26.

“We are focusing on the first dose now because the government will administer the second and the booster following this campaign,” the minister said.

Zahid said the government would continue administering the first dose after February 26 but would not focus on it. “Those who have not taken the first dose yet should do so.”

When asked about health risks for children after reopening schools, the minister replied the government could not vaccinate them until getting the WHO approval.

Till then, he urged teachers, students, and others to comply with health guidelines strictly.

Zahid said Bangladesh had collected over 28.5 crore vaccine doses from different sources and there was enough stock.

He said people without required documents, such as birth registration or national identity cards, and prior registrations may get jabbed from nearby vaccination centres.