As hospitals in Chattogram experience a sharp rise in bronchopneumonia cases among children, experts are urging for stronger vaccination efforts to prevent such life-threatening illnesses. With World Pneumonia Day observed today (12 November, 2024), this situation sheds light on the critical role of immunisation in protecting children under five—the group most vulnerable to pneumonia. 

Chattogram Medical College Hospital (CMCH) and other paediatric facilities are currently overwhelmed with patients, many suffering from respiratory illnesses. CMCH’s 90-bed “Child Health Ward” is hosting 219 patients, with 70 diagnosed with bronchopneumonia. According to Zabeen Chowdhury, head of the ward, exclusive breastfeeding and timely immunisation are among the most effective ways to prevent pneumonia.

“Exclusive breastfeeding for six months can significantly enhance a baby’s natural immunity. Vaccination, particularly against Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) and pneumococcus, plays a crucial role in prevention,” she said.

Child immunisation is a cornerstone of the Country Learning Hub (CLH) for Immunisation Equity in Bangladesh, which works to ensure that no child is left behind in accessing life-saving vaccines. Despite Bangladesh’s strong national immunisation program, challenges remain, especially in reaching zero-dose (ZD) and under-immunised (UI) children—those who have not received a single dose or have missed critical vaccines.

In Bangladesh, pneumonia remains a leading cause of child mortality. According to Prof AKM Rezaul Karim, former head of Child Health at CMCH, children deprived of breastfeeding, suffering from malnutrition, or living in unhealthy conditions are at the greatest risk. “Public awareness and improved healthcare access are crucial in addressing this issue,” he stated.

CLH-Bangladesh has been actively addressing gaps in immunisation by collaborating with local health authorities to identify and vaccinate ZD and UI children, particularly in hard-to-reach areas like urban slums and rural communities. Through targeted community engagement, the initiative aims to strengthen vaccine coverage and ensure equitable access.

At Chattogram Maa O Shishu General Hospital, assistant professor Fahim Hasan Reza echoed the need for immunisation. “We are seeing bronchopneumonia cases accounting for 40 percent of admissions. Many of these could have been prevented with vaccines. Parents must be vigilant about completing their children’s immunisation schedules,” he said.

The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV), introduced in Bangladesh’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) in 2015, has shown promise in reducing pneumonia cases. However, to eliminate disparities, CLH-Bangladesh is emphasising outreach to marginalised communities to ensure every child, regardless of socio-economic status, receives vaccines.

While the situation in Chattogram highlights the pressing need for improved healthcare facilities, it also underscores the importance of empowering parents with knowledge. Many caregivers remain unaware of the benefits of vaccines or face barriers such as travel costs and access to health centres.

Bangladesh’s efforts to strengthen its immunisation program have already brought significant achievements. Now, as the country works to achieve universal vaccine coverage, addressing challenges related to equity and awareness is vital. The surge in bronchopneumonia cases serves as a stark reminder of what’s at stake but also a call to action for continued progress.

With initiatives like CLH-Bangladesh and robust national health programs, the dream of a fully immunised and healthy generation remains within reach. 

Resource: 

World Pneumonia Day: Chattogram hospitals see surge in bronchopneumonia cases [Internet]. The Daily Star. 2024 [cited 2024 Dec 4]. Available from: https://www.thedailystar.net/health/news/world-pneumonia-day-chattogram-hospitals-see-surge-bronchopneumonia-cases-3751046