Bangladesh has made significant strides in influenza surveillance since launching the National Influenza Surveillance Program in 2007. Yet, despite a strong data collection system, the country still lacks a national influenza vaccination policy—leaving many high-risk groups unprotected.

A recent study led by icddr,b and IEDCR, published in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia (June 2025), highlights the urgent need for context-specific, evidence-based strategies to address seasonal influenza. The research outlines current surveillance insights, vaccine coverage status, and actionable steps to close critical policy and knowledge gaps.

Data from 2007 to 2024 reveal that during peak flu seasons (June–July), influenza positivity among SARI cases can reach up to 57%, with children under five and elderly populations most affected. Annual hospitalization rates for children under five ranged from 114 to 529 per 100,000, showing their vulnerability to severe outcomes. Despite this, influenza vaccine uptake remains below 5% among healthcare workers, and largely undocumented among other high-risk groups.

The study recommends leveraging existing systems—like COVID-19 vaccine infrastructure, digital tools, and hospital networks—to promote seasonal influenza vaccines for priority groups, including young children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and individuals with chronic illnesses.

Bangladesh already has local capacity to produce influenza vaccines, yet public access remains limited to private providers. Integrating influenza vaccination into the national Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), routine antenatal care, and pediatric visits could drastically improve vaccine reach and confidence.

Cost-effectiveness modeling also supports this: vaccinating healthcare workers and adults with comorbidities is not only health-beneficial but also cost-saving, with projected ICERs as low as USD -99 per QALY. These findings give strong reason to invest in a national strategy.

As Bangladesh works to reduce zero-dose and under-immunised children, introducing influenza vaccines into the routine child immunisation schedule could be a valuable addition. Using strategies like SMS reminders, school-based programs, and pediatrician-led advocacy could enhance coverage and trust among parents.

With over 18 years of surveillance and strong public health capacity, Bangladesh is well-positioned to turn its data into action. A national influenza policy could not only reduce seasonal illness but also strengthen the country’s resilience against future pandemics. 

References: 

Alif, Ashrafur & Rumi, Hasan & Emon, Efta Khairul & Tuba, Afnan & Haque, Md. (2025). A Literature Review on Childhood Pneumonia in Bangladesh: Reducing Mortality and Advancing SDG Goals. East West Medical College Journal. 13. 54-64. Researchgate.net. [cited 2025 Apr 27]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387853838_A_Literature_Review_on_Childhood_Pneumonia_in_Bangladesh_Reducing_Mortality_and_Advancing_SDG_Goals