Malnutrition leaves children more vulnerable to measles: health minister

Malnutrition is putting many children at greater risk of measles infection, Health Minister Sardar Sakhawat Husain has said.

Speaking at the inauguration of World Breastfeeding Week in Dhaka on Saturday, he stressed the importance of colostrum immediately after birth.

“Ensuring breastfeeding will strengthen their immunity and improve their ability to fight infectious diseases,” he said.

“Many children are deprived of colostrum and breast milk due to rising rates of Caesarean deliveries and lack of awareness,” he said.

The minister called for coordinated action to promote breastfeeding and reduce reliance on commercial substitutes.