Childhood Immunization in Bangladesh: EPI Schedule and Recommended Optional Vaccines
Written by Dr. Kuntal Roy
Associate Professor of Pediatrics • September 5, 2025
The Foundation: Bangladesh EPI Schedule
The national EPI schedule starts at birth and covers essential infectious diseases across the first 15 months of life.
- At Birth: BCG (Tuberculosis) and OPV 0 (Polio).
- At 6, 10, and 14 Weeks: Pentavalent vaccine (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Hib), PCV (Pneumococcal), and OPV/IPV (Polio).
- At 9 Months: MR 1 (Measles and Rubella).
- At 15 Months: MR 2 (Second dose of Measles and Rubella).
Recommended Non-EPI / Optional Vaccines
In addition to the mandatory EPI vaccines, pediatric guidelines recommend several additional vaccines to provide broader protection:
- Rotavirus vaccine: Protects against severe viral gastroenteritis and dehydration in infants (given at 6 and 10 weeks).
- Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV): Highly recommended in South Asia for children above 6 to 9 months.
- Hepatitis A vaccine: Protects against food-and-water-borne viral hepatitis (given after 12 months).
- Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccine: Two doses given after 12 months of age.
- Annual Influenza vaccine: Recommended before seasonal flu outbreaks.
Managing Normal Post-Vaccine Reactions
Mild fever, fussiness, and local swelling or tenderness at the injection site are normal immune responses lasting 24 to 48 hours. A cold compress on the injection site and age-appropriate Paracetamol drops provide gentle relief. Never massage the injection site vigorously.
- High fever above 102°F that does not respond to Paracetamol
- Continuous high-pitched crying lasting more than 3 hours
- Significant swelling, warmth, or redness extending far beyond the injection site after 48 hours
- Hives, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty immediately following vaccination
Clinical Summary
Keeping your child’s vaccination record up to date provides lifelong protection. If your child has missed any scheduled doses, speak with your pediatrician to create a catch-up immunization timeline.
Medical Disclaimer: These articles provide general pediatric educational information for parents and families in Bangladesh. They are not intended to replace an in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or clinical consultation with Dr. Kuntal Roy or your family pediatrician.
Have questions about your child’s health?
Consult Dr. Kuntal Roy at his Dhanmondi or Malibag chambers.