Measles Outbreak Claims Five More Child Lives in Bangladesh

Five more children have died from measles and related symptoms across Bangladesh in the past 24 hours, as the country continues to face a growing public health challenge linked to the infectious disease. During the same period, 696 new cases of measles and suspected measles symptoms were reported, according to the latest update from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

The DGHS released the information in its regular measles situation report on Sunday, 12 July. The report showed that four of the latest deaths were among patients who developed symptoms associated with measles, while one death was confirmed to have been caused by the disease itself.

Since the outbreak began on 15 March, a total of 758 people have lost their lives due to measles and related complications across the country. Health authorities have continued monitoring the situation as infections spread in different areas, with children remaining among the most vulnerable groups.

The latest figures also indicate that the number of reported infections and suspected cases has continued to rise. In the last 24 hours alone, 90 people were confirmed to have measles, while another 879 individuals developed symptoms suspected to be linked to the disease. Since mid-March, the total number of people showing measles-related symptoms has reached 111,480, while confirmed measles cases have risen to 13,500.

According to the health directorate’s data, 94,340 people suffering from measles or related symptoms have required hospital treatment since the outbreak was first reported. Of them, 90,605 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospitals after receiving medical care.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can spread rapidly, particularly in communities where vaccination coverage is low. Children who have not received routine immunisation or those with weakened health conditions face a higher risk of developing severe complications, including pneumonia, dehydration and other life-threatening conditions.

Health officials have been urging families to ensure that eligible children receive measles vaccinations and to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms such as fever, rash, cough, runny nose or red eyes appear. The continued rise in cases has placed additional pressure on healthcare facilities, particularly those treating large numbers of paediatric patients.

The authorities are maintaining disease surveillance and reporting systems to track new infections, identify affected areas and support treatment efforts. Public health experts have stressed that timely vaccination, early diagnosis and proper medical care remain key measures to contain the spread of the outbreak.