Measles Crisis Deepens Across Sylhet

The public health situation in Bangladesh’s Sylhet Division has become increasingly concerning as the number of deaths linked to measles and pneumonia continues to rise. Health authorities have confirmed that 69 children and one nurse have died after being affected by measles-related complications and pneumonia since the beginning of the year. In the latest 24-hour reporting period, a further 80 patients were admitted to hospitals with suspected measles symptoms, while laboratory testing confirmed four additional measles cases.

According to Dr Mahbubul Alam, Director of Health for Sylhet Division, a total of 322 measles cases have been officially confirmed across the division between 1 January and 15 June. The highest number of infections has been recorded in Sunamganj District, followed by Sylhet, Habiganj and Moulvibazar.

Confirmed Measles Cases by District

Health officials reported that among the patients identified in Habiganj, two were also diagnosed with rubella.

During the past 24 hours, 80 new patients with suspected measles symptoms were admitted to hospitals throughout the division. The largest numbers of admissions were recorded at Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital and Shaheed Shamsuddin Ahmed Hospital. Additional patients were admitted to healthcare facilities in Sunamganj, Moulvibazar and Kanai Ghat.

New Admissions in the Last 24 Hours

At present, 297 patients with suspected measles are receiving treatment at government and private hospitals across the division. Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital is treating the largest number of patients, followed by Sunamganj District Sadar Hospital.

Patients Currently Under Treatment

Health Department sources stated that no new deaths from suspected measles were reported during the last 24 hours. However, the cumulative death toll for confirmed and suspected measles-related cases has reached 69 this year.

Public health officials continue to monitor the outbreak closely as hospitals remain under pressure from a steady influx of patients. Medical teams across the division are providing treatment and surveillance efforts remain ongoing to identify new infections and limit further transmission. Authorities have urged parents and guardians to seek prompt medical attention for children showing symptoms such as fever, rash, cough or breathing difficulties, as measles can lead to severe complications including pneumonia, particularly among young children and vulnerable patients.

Dr Mahbubul Alam reiterated that 297 patients are currently undergoing treatment in both public and private healthcare facilities across Sylhet Division, highlighting the continued burden the outbreak is placing on the regional health system.