Measles Death Toll in Children Surpasses 350

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Bangladesh’s worsening measles outbreak has claimed the lives of nine more children in the last 24 hours, pushing the nationwide death toll from measles and measles-like symptoms to 352, according to the latest figures released by the Directorate General of Health Services.

The deaths were reported between 8:00am Friday and 8:00am on Saturday. Among the deceased children, three had confirmed measles infections, while six others were suffering from symptoms consistent with the highly contagious disease.

Health officials also reported a sharp rise in infections across the country during the same period. A total of 489 children were newly diagnosed with measles, while another 946 children showed symptoms associated with the disease. Altogether, 1,435 children were affected within just one day.

The outbreak has spread across several regions, with fatalities reported from multiple divisions. Three children with confirmed measles died in Barisal, while deaths linked to measles symptoms were reported in Dhaka, Khulna and Sylhet.

At the infectious disease hospital in Mohakhali, scenes of grief unfolded as families mourned their children. One of the victims was 10-month-old Mahazbi, who died after spending three days in intensive care. His mother, Shiuli Akter, broke down in tears while holding the lifeless body of her infant son.

According to official data, since March 15 this year, 291 children have died with measles-like symptoms, while another 61 children died after being diagnosed with confirmed measles infections.

The health authorities said the outbreak has affected tens of thousands of children nationwide. Since mid-March, symptoms linked to measles have been detected in 47,656 children across the country.

Among them, 33,631 children required hospital treatment due to complications and worsening conditions. However, officials said 29,746 children have since recovered and returned home after receiving medical care.

The Directorate General of Health Services also confirmed that 6,979 children have tested positive for measles since March 15.

Public health experts have expressed concern over the rapid spread of the disease, warning that overcrowded living conditions, gaps in vaccination coverage and delayed medical treatment could further worsen the situation if urgent preventive measures are not strengthened nationwide.