2 more children with measles symptoms die in Kushtia, 130 undergoing treatment

Two children died from measles symptoms in Kushtia last night (3 April), bringing the total death toll from the suspected outbreak in the district to four.

The deceased were five-month-old Aiza, daughter of Momin from Kushtia town, and eight-month-old Ibrahim from Daulatpur upazila. 

Aiza died at Kushtia Medical College Hospital after being admitted on 30 March.

Meanwhile, Ibrahim died at Kushtia 250-Bed General Hospital at 11:30pm, just hours after being admitted with symptoms.

Kushtia Medical College Hospital Deputy Director Dr AHM Anwarul Islam said Aiza had been in critical condition and required ICU support since admission. 

Health officials reported that another eight-month-old, Afran, died earlier yesterday (3 April) morning, while the first suspected measles death in the district was recorded three months ago.

According to the civil surgeon's office, more than 300 children have been hospitalised with measles symptoms across the district. 

While 75 children have recovered and returned home, 130 remain under treatment in various facilities.

Authorities said separate measles isolation corners have been set up in hospitals. However, due to the increasing patient load, many children are being treated in general wards, leading to a shortage of beds.

Kushtia Civil Surgeon Dr Sheikh Mohammad Kamal Hossain said the district has faced a shortage of measles vaccines, which has hampered timely immunisation efforts.

He assured everyone that mass vaccination will commence as soon as supplies are received.