Measles Outbreak Strains Rajshahi Hospital Resources

Children admitted with symptoms of the highly contagious disease measles are reportedly being treated alongside other patients at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, raising serious concerns about infection control and patient safety. Despite established protocols recommending that suspected measles cases be transferred to specialised infectious disease facilities, such measures are not being consistently followed.

Hospital sources report that on Thursday, four children showing severe measles symptoms were recommended for intensive care unit (ICU) admission. By Friday morning, two of these children had died, highlighting the severity of the situation. Throughout March, a total of 84 children from the paediatric ward were placed on a waiting list for ICU care, reflecting both the seriousness of the illnesses and the pressure on limited resources.

Recent laboratory testing conducted by the World Health Organization confirmed measles infection in at least ten patients. Additional samples are being tested, suggesting that the outbreak may be more widespread than initially estimated.

A critical challenge is the limited ICU capacity. The hospital reportedly has only 12 ICU beds for children, all managed internally rather than through government provision. As a result, critically ill patients often have to wait, increasing the risk of complications or death.

Key Data on Measles Cases and Hospital Capacity

Family accounts describe distressing conditions. Children with measles symptoms are reportedly placed in the same wards as other patients, increasing the risk of cross-infection. One guardian explained that despite her child’s critical condition, ICU admission was delayed due to a long waiting list.

Hospital authorities have not provided clear explanations. A spokesperson noted that infectious patients are usually referred to a dedicated hospital, but reports suggest that no transfers were actually made.

Paediatric department officials added that although two isolation wards exist, they lack sufficient oxygen supply, making them unsuitable for critically ill children. The hospital has also been under pressure due to a surge of over 700 patients in a facility designed for 200 beds.

The situation is mirrored at a private medical college in Rajshahi, where 20 out of 28 recently admitted children exhibited measles symptoms but were not isolated.

Public health officials have confirmed a rise in suspected measles cases across Rajshahi and neighbouring districts. Hospitals have been instructed to report suspected cases promptly and provide isolated care. However, implementation gaps persist, leaving vulnerable children at continued risk.