Measles death toll crosses 600

The death toll from confirmed measles and measles-like symptoms in Bangladesh has crossed 600, with seven more children dying in the 24 hours between 8:00am Tuesday and 8:00am Wednesday.
According to the Directorate General of Health Services, the total number of deaths linked to the outbreak has now reached 601.

Of them, at least 90 children died from laboratory-confirmed measles infections, while 511 others died with symptoms consistent with the disease, the DGHS said in its latest health bulletin.

During the same 24-hour period, 1,210 patients with measles-like symptoms were admitted to hospitals across the country. Among them, 55 cases were confirmed as measles through laboratory tests.

DGHS data shows that 9,191 measles cases were confirmed through laboratory testing between March 15 and June 3.

The health bulletin also said a total of 74,572 suspected measles cases have been identified nationwide since the outbreak began. Of them, 55,942 patients have so far been discharged after receiving treatment.

The latest figures highlight the severity of the outbreak, which has placed growing pressure on hospitals, particularly paediatric units. Several hospitals, including DNCC Covid-19 Dedicated Hospital in Mohakhali, have been receiving infected children daily, many of them referred from other health facilities.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that mainly affects children. It spreads through coughing and sneezing and can lead to serious complications, especially among unvaccinated children, malnourished children and those with weak immunity.

Health experts say the rising number of suspected cases and deaths underscores the need for stronger surveillance, faster diagnosis, wider vaccination coverage and urgent treatment for children showing symptoms.

The outbreak has also raised concern over gaps in routine immunisation and follow-up vaccination campaigns. Public health specialists have warned that unless vaccination coverage is strengthened quickly, more children may remain at risk.

The DGHS said hospitals and health authorities are continuing treatment and monitoring activities across the country.