The alarming spread of measles across Bangladesh continues to claim young lives, with three more children dying from measles-like symptoms over a 24-hour period. While no laboratory-confirmed measles fatalities were reported during this timeframe, hospitals across the country admitted 1,061 children displaying symptoms of the highly contagious viral infection.
According to a bulletin issued by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Tuesday, 18 August, the latest figures reflect hospital data collected between 8:00 am on Monday and 8:00 am on Tuesday.
Official statistics provided by the DGHS indicate that the total number of deaths attributed to measles and suspected measles symptoms since the beginning of the year has escalated to 918. Of these casualties, 99 deaths have been laboratory-confirmed as measles, whilst 819 children succumbed to severe measles-like symptoms prior to definitive testing.
The situation remains critical following a particularly deadly start to the week. On Monday, seven children died from measles-like symptoms within 24 hours. The Dhaka Division recorded the highest fatality count on that day with five deaths, while Barishal and Mymensingh divisions reported one death each.
Health professionals emphasize that measles is an airborne, highly transmissible viral disease that primarily affects young children, particularly those who are malnourished or unvaccinated. The infection can lead to severe complications, including acute diarrhea, severe respiratory infections such as pneumonia, and encephalitis, which significantly increases the risk of mortality.
The daily intake of over 1,000 child patients highlights the heavy strain currently placed on pediatric units in government and private healthcare institutions. Medical experts continue to urge parents to ensure their children receive routine immunisations under the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) and to seek immediate medical attention at healthcare facilities if children develop high fever, cough, or characteristic skin rashes.
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