The government today (June 15) announced to start 'Vitamin A Plus' campaign across the country with 6 to 59 months children on June 18.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Zahid Malek came up with the announcement during a press conference at a hotel in the capital.

The Director General of the Department of Health, Professor Dr. Abul Basar Md. Khurshid Alam, Additional Director General Professor Dr. Ahmedul Kabir, Bangladesh representative of the United Nations Dr. Jordan Jang Rana and others were present at the press conference.

The minister said the campaign will be celebrated across the nation on Sunday, adding malnutrition rates are now less in the country and child and maternal mortality rates have dropped significantly.

As a result of the current government continuing to feed vitamin 'A' capsules twice a year regularly since 2010, the number of children suffering from vitamin 'A deficiency night sickness' (0.04%) is almost non-existent, he said.

The minister also said that Vitamin 'A+' capsules should not be given forcefully or while crying, capsules should also not be given to children below 6 months, and above 5 years and sick children.

The overall mortality of children dropped by 24 percent, also deaths due to measles, diarrhea and pneumonia has decreased significantly, Zahid Malek added.

BDST: 1418 HRS, JUNE 15, 2023
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