Vision Care Push: Bangladesh launched the WHO-backed SPECS 2030 initiative to expand basic eye testing and affordable spectacles, aiming to close the big gap where many people have refractive errors but lack access to glasses. Disease Control & Aid: MSF met the Health Minister to discuss support for the national cholera vaccination drive and dengue prevention in Chattogram, including training and linking private providers to reporting. Cholera Vaccination: Government plans an oral cholera vaccination campaign starting Aug 22, targeting about 51.75 lakh people, with MSF also set to back outbreak response. Dengue Update: Health officials reported fresh dengue cases and deaths, with hospitalisations continuing to rise. Air Quality Alert: Dhaka ranked 15th globally for air pollution with an AQI of 98, still “moderate” but a concern for sensitive groups. Public Health Safety: A deadly fire in Kolkata—reportedly linked to an AC unit explosion—has renewed focus on fire safety and emergency readiness, with some victims believed to be Bangladeshi medical visitors. Food Safety for Farmers: Farmers will get pesticide safety training to reduce health risks from improper pesticide use, alongside safer farming practices. Leadership & Health Context: Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir was elected Bangladesh’s 23rd President in the first contested poll in 35 years, following the prior president’s resignation on health grounds.