BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Political Affairs Adviser to the Prime Minister Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Tuesday called for coordinated efforts to tackle the growing measles outbreak in the country.
“The risk of measles has increased due to anti-vaccine misinformation, superstition and neglect in the health sector. The situation may become more complicated if effective steps are not taken quickly,” he said.
The BNP leader made the remarks while inaugurating a rally organised by the BNP, marking the World Health Day 2026.
The rally started from the Central Shaheed Minar and ended at the National Press Club.
Rizvi urged the government, the Health Ministry, doctors and all those involved in public health to take joint action to prevent further spread of measles.
Highlighting the importance of the day, he said World Health Day is significant for doctors, nurses and all those involved in healthcare services.
Referring to this year’s theme, “ Together for health. Stand with science” Rizvi said the key message is to stay with science, as proper diagnosis, good health and effective treatment are not possible without it.
He said the recent rise in measles cases is largely due to anti-vaccine propaganda and widespread misconceptions. “Even in developed countries, anti-vaccine groups are active which contributes to misinformation and superstition.”
Rizvi said modern healthcare is the result of scientific advancement and people expect the government to respond quickly with necessary measures and support during any outbreak.
He criticised past mismanagement in the health sector and said the current government elected by people is active but needs to give more importance to public health.
The BNP leader also noted that the health sector did not receive adequate attention over the past 15 years and even during the interim period.
Citing recent figures, Rizvi said 38 people died between March 12 and April while Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj and Mymensingh have emerged as measles hotspots.
He deplored that seven children died across the country in the last 24 hours, stressing that such deaths deeply affect society and demand urgent action.
Rizvi urged the Health Ministry and all concerned to act swiftly so that people can clearly see this is a pro-people government.
The BNP leader said although there is a medical research council in the country but the allocation for research remains very limited, noting that meaningful research cannot be carried out with funding of only Tk200,000 to Tk500,000.
He said the cost of research increases further due to a 23% VAT on journal reviews, and stressed the need for higher allocation for science and research.
Rizvi expressed hope that doctors and healthcare professionals would play an active and timely role in tackling measles and similar public health threats.