4 children infected with measles-rubella in Thakurgaon

Infectious diseases measles and rubella have appeared in Thakurgaon, a northern district of the country. Four children from Sadar, Ranishankail, and Haripur upazilas have been identified as infected.

Of these, two children with measles and two children with rubella are undergoing treatment. This has raised concern and panic among the public, while the health department remains on alert. However, despite reports of infections at the field level, the central warehouse is reportedly out of vaccine stock.

According to local health department and hospital sources, children infected with measles show symptoms such as fever, body rash, cough, and red eyes. Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads quickly through sneezing and coughing.

Rubella, on the other hand, is relatively less serious but remains risky for children and pregnant women. If not treated promptly, it can lead to pneumonia, diarrhea, or other complications. Incomplete or skipped vaccinations increase the risk of infection. In addition, infected children should be kept separate from others to prevent further spread.

According to the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), this crisis has arisen due to the lack of a major national vaccination campaign after 2020 and a shortage of regular supplies.

Dr. Firoz Zaman Jewel, Superintendent of the 250-bed General Hospital in Thakurgaon, said a four-bed isolation unit has been set up in the hospital to treat measles patients. Two children have been treated at the hospital and are currently receiving care at home.

Dr. Anisur Rahman, Civil Surgeon of Thakurgaon, stated that the infected children are under observation. Samples from six children were sent for measles testing; two tested positive for measles and two others for rubella. Following this incident, surveillance has been increased in surrounding areas to prevent further spread. He urged people not to panic and to seek medical advice immediately if they experience symptoms.