Tarique says those responsible for measles toll will be identified before action is taken

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the government will review who was responsible for the nationwide deaths of hundreds of children linked to a measles outbreak before taking action.

In Wednesday’s Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) in parliament, Jamalpur-3 MP Md Mostafizur Rahman Babul asked who should be held accountable and what measures had been taken.

According to official figures, more than 650 people -- mostly children -- have died from measles and related symptoms since Mar 15.

Over the past 24 hours until Wednesday morning, another four children with measles symptoms have died.

Responding to Babul, the leader of the House said: “The matter will be reviewed based on the necessary data and technical assessment to determine whether any change in the vaccine procurement system has had a negative impact on the vaccination campaign.

“If evidence of negligence or dereliction of duty by any individual or organisation is found in the review, necessary action will be taken as per the prevailing laws and rules.”

Initiatives have been taken to strengthen the continuity of the vaccine supply system, stock management, disease surveillance, rapid outbreak detection and response systems to avoid such situations in the future, he added.