Three children have died from measles-related symptoms in the past 24 hours in Bangladesh, while 1,032 new cases of measles and measles-like symptoms were recorded during the same period, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
The latest update, issued in the DGHS measles report covering the 24-hour period from 8:00 am Friday to 8:00 am Saturday, confirms that the fatalities occurred in Dhaka and Sylhet divisions. Two of the deceased children were from Dhaka, while one death was reported in Sylhet.
Deaths and infections in the last 24 hours
The report further states that, alongside the three deaths, 1,032 children were affected by measles or measles-related symptoms across the country during the reporting period. These figures reflect the continuing spread of the disease and associated complications among children.
Cumulative situation since 15 March
Since 15 March, the DGHS has recorded a significant rise in measles-related illness and deaths across the country. During this period, a total of 522 children have died due to measles symptoms. In addition, 91 children died after being officially diagnosed with measles. Altogether, the total number of child deaths related to measles and its symptoms has reached 613.
The data also shows a large number of suspected and confirmed cases. Since 15 March, symptoms consistent with measles have been identified in 77,791 children. Of these, 63,134 children required hospital admission for treatment and monitoring.
Encouragingly, a substantial proportion of those admitted have recovered. According to the DGHS report, 58,964 children have been discharged from hospitals after successful recovery during the same period.
In terms of laboratory-confirmed cases, 9,620 children have been diagnosed with measles since 15 March.
Summary of reported figures
Category
Number of children (since 15 March)
Total deaths (measles symptoms)
522
Deaths after confirmed measles diagnosis
91
Total deaths
613
Children with measles symptoms
77,791
Hospital admissions
63,134
Recoveries (discharged)
58,964
Confirmed measles cases
9,620
New cases in last 24 hours
1,032
Deaths in last 24 hours
3
The DGHS data indicates that while a large number of children have recovered following treatment, the continued emergence of new cases and ongoing fatalities reflects the sustained public health burden of measles and related complications over the reported period.
The figures cover the nationwide situation and are compiled through routine surveillance and hospital reporting mechanisms under the health authorities.
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