The country’s health sector is going through a deep crisis, with the most severe impact falling on children. A severe shortage of vaccines, stagnation in disease control programs, and disruptions in healthcare services have led to an alarming rise in child mortality. In particular, the resurgence of measles has emerged as a major public health threat.
Hospitals in the capital and across the country are witnessing a growing influx of children affected by measles. Doctors say that due to a shortage of beds, it has become difficult to provide proper care in many cases. Many parents are being forced to stay in hospital corridors or on floors with their sick children. One such parent said that after visiting multiple vaccination centers for several days without success, they were ultimately forced to admit their child to the hospital.
According to health experts, one of the main reasons behind the collapse of the vaccination program is the suspension of the Operational Plan (OP). For years, this system ensured the regular procurement and supply of vaccines. However, its sudden discontinuation has created a breakdown in the entire system.
Recent statistics clearly highlight the severity of the situation. In 2025, only 57.1 percent of children were brought under vaccination coverage, compared to significantly higher rates in previous years—85.8 percent in 2024, 89.4 percent in 2023, and 97.9 percent in 2022. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the vaccination program did not experience such a severe disruption.
Experts have warned that the disruption in vaccination efforts not only increases the spread of measles but also raises the risk of the re-emergence of diseases like rabies, kala-azar, and filariasis, which had previously been under control. This could undermine years of public health achievements.
Meanwhile, complications and bureaucratic delays in the new vaccine procurement process have made it difficult to import vaccines on time. As a result, the vaccine shortage has become more acute in different parts of the country.
Health analysts believe that if the situation is not addressed quickly, it could turn into a major public health disaster. They have called for the immediate revival of vaccination programs, the adoption of effective planning, and the restoration of stability in the healthcare system.
There is growing concern that without timely and effective measures, the country may have to pay a much heavier price in the future.
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