On a bright Friday morning in Dhaka, a hall filled with the country’s leading pediatricians echoed with one unified message — “No child should be left behind in protection.” The three-day conference, titled “Expanding Protection Against Childhood Infectious Diseases Through Vaccination,” brought together more than 200 experts who shared one goal: strengthening Bangladesh’s immunisation coverage to ensure every child grows up healthy and disease-free.

Organised by Synovia Pharma PLC, the event was held simultaneously in Dhaka and Chittagong, engaging both national and international pediatric specialists in discussions on the current and future landscape of childhood vaccination. While celebrating Bangladesh’s remarkable success under the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), experts agreed that the next step is to make immunisation even more comprehensive and equitable.

Bangladesh’s EPI currently includes life-saving vaccines such as BCG, Pentavalent, OPV, PCV, and MR, protecting millions of children from tuberculosis, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, and measles. Pediatricians praised the government and health partners for sustaining coverage levels above 95% nationwide, marking a significant achievement in reducing child mortality.

However, speakers noted that additional protection could be achieved by introducing vaccines against pneumonia, meningitis, typhoid, hepatitis A, and seasonal influenza—diseases that continue to pose risks for children under five. According to the experts, broadening vaccine access would build on existing EPI success and further strengthen Bangladesh’s fight against preventable childhood illnesses.

Renowned Filipino pediatrician Prof Dr Anna Lisa T Ong-Lim, Head of Pediatric Infectious and Tropical Diseases at the University of the Philippines Manila, delivered the keynote address. She highlighted how many countries have reduced child mortality by expanding vaccine coverage through data-driven policy and strong community awareness. “Bangladesh has achieved so much already,” she said. “Now is the time to build on that momentum by protecting children from all preventable diseases.”

In Dhaka, the panel discussion featured prominent Bangladeshi pediatricians Prof Dr M Istiaque Hossain, Prof Dr ARM Luthful Kabir, and Prof Dr Md Abid Hossain Mollah, who emphasised timely vaccination and community engagement as critical for sustaining high coverage. The Chittagong panel included Prof Dr Syed Mesbahul Hoque, Prof Dr Wazir Ahmed, Prof Dr Chiranjib Barua, and Prof Dr Pranab Kanti Mallick, who echoed the same message: every vaccine counts, and every child deserves protection.

The conference concluded with a shared vision—to make immunisation a national movement where parents, doctors, and policymakers work together. Speakers called for continued public education to ensure caregivers understand the importance of completing all vaccine doses.

Synovia Pharma PLC, formerly known as Sanofi Bangladesh, reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to child health through vaccine accessibility and awareness. The company, which operates a major facility in Tongi, Gazipur, continues to partner with healthcare professionals to strengthen immunisation systems across the country.

As Bangladesh moves closer to achieving universal immunisation, pediatricians believe that expanding vaccine protection will not only save lives but also strengthen the foundation of a healthier, more resilient generation.   

Reference:
Pediatricians call for strengthened immunization to combat childhood infectious diseases. Dhakatribune.com. [cited 2025 Oct 19]. Available from: https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/health/384595/pediatricians-call-for-strengthened-immunization