Measles death toll climbs to 336

Bangladesh’s measles situation has taken an alarming turn as 12 children died from measles and measles-like syndromes within 24 hours, raising the total death toll to 336 this year.

According to the Directorate General of Health Services, the deaths were reported between 8am on 6 May and 8am on 7 May.

During the same period, 1,238 patients with measles-like symptoms were admitted to hospitals across the country, showing a sharp rise in suspected infections.

Among them, 286 cases were confirmed as measles through laboratory tests.

DGHS data shows that so far this year, 57 children have died from confirmed measles infections, while 279 others died with symptoms consistent with measles-like syndromes.

Between 15 March and 7 May, Bangladesh recorded 6,208 laboratory-confirmed measles cases.

The latest health bulletin also said 45,498 suspected measles cases have been identified nationwide, while 28,238 patients have already been discharged after treatment.

The World Health Organization has warned that Bangladesh remains at high risk from measles and urged urgent measures to close immunity gaps.

Health experts say stronger vaccination drives, rapid case detection, hospital preparedness, and public awareness are now crucial to prevent further spread of the disease.

With hospitals seeing a growing influx of young patients, public health officials are calling for immediate coordinated action to protect children from the worsening outbreak.