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“There are some challenges for which immunisation coverage has been hovering between 80 and 84 percent over the past 12 years,” he said.

He noted that nearly 40 percent of posts in the immunisation programme are vacant, including 43 percent at the EPI headquarters. Delays in approving health programmes have also disrupted vaccine supply, he added.

Riad Mahmud, health manager (immunisation) at Unicef Bangladesh, said a new strategy is needed to address low-coverage areas.

While rural immunisation coverage stands at 85 percent, it is below 80 percent in urban areas, he said.

The government’s own workforce is engaged in rural vaccination, whereas coverage in urban areas mainly depends on NGOs and private hospitals.

He suggested that the government deploy its own manpower in urban areas as well.

EPI Deputy Director Mohammad Shahariar Sajjad said funds have already been allocated for vaccines and the supply is expected within this month, which will help resolve some issues.

Meanwhile, at a separate press conference at the health ministry, Prof Sayedur Rahman, special assistant to the chief adviser for the health ministry, said the WHO-prequalified typhoid vaccine has been used safely in countries like Nepal and Pakistan.

“The vaccine is completely free, and no one is allowed to charge money. Action will be taken against any violation,” he said.