From Misinformation to Public Distrust: Urgency of Evidence-Based Transparency, Communication and Community Engagement for Bangladesh's Typhoid Vaccination.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: In Bangladesh, typhoid fever poses a significant threat to public health and has been a major epidemic for many years, especially affecting children from low- and middle-income families due to poor water, sanitation, and seasonal living conditions. This article highlights the nationwide Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) campaign launched in October 2025 as a highly effective, cost-efficient intervention to provide preventative measures and control antibiotic resistance.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, alongside gray literature from WHO, Gavi, FAO, UNICEF, DGHS, and other Government of Bangladesh sources. Relevant evidence was synthesized to examine misinformation, public trust, and communication challenges surrounding typhoid vaccination in Bangladesh.

RESULTS

This perspective identifies major challenges to optimal vaccine coverage, specifically misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, and gaps in risk communication that must be addressed. To ensure long-term vaccine acceptance and permanent typhoid control, the study emphasizes the necessity of educating the public through evidence-based communication, community participation, and trust-centered communication techniques.

CONCLUSION

It is important for these communication strategies to be implemented to realize optimal coverage and ensure the control of typhoid is permanent in Bangladesh.