4 more suspected measles deaths, 685 hospitalised in 24 hours
Total confirmed measles deaths reach 13; 27 suspected child deaths so far: DGHS
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) today (2 April) reported that a total of 13 people have died from confirmed measles infections so far this year, while 27 children have died with suspected measles symptoms.
In the last 24 hours – from 8am Wednesday to 8am Thursday – four suspected measles-related deaths were recorded.
During the same period, 685 patients with measles-like symptoms were admitted to hospitals, while 26 cases were confirmed as measles.
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According to DGHS data compiled since 15 March, a total of 585 measles cases have been laboratory-confirmed between 15 March and 1 April. Over the same period, the number of confirmed deaths has reached 13.
Meanwhile, 1,930 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospitals so far.
The current surge marks a sharp increase compared to previous years. During the same period last year, only nine measles cases were reported, while the number stood at 64 in 2024.
Public health experts attribute the rise in infections to gaps in last year's immunisation coverage, delays in measles vaccination campaigns, and widespread malnutrition among children.
To contain the situation, the Ministry of Health is set to launch an emergency measles vaccination campaign starting Sunday. While the routine programme previously targeted children aged 9 to 15 months, the special campaign will expand coverage to include children aged 6 months to 10 years.
This morning, Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain said at an event held at Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute that the measles outbreak had struck "like lightning," catching the system unprepared.
However, he assured that the government is now fully prepared to tackle the situation within a short time.
He added that a nationwide measles vaccination campaign will begin on Sunday.
"I am deeply saddened by the deaths of so many children," the minister said.
He also noted that all necessary measures have been taken to contain the outbreak across the country, including in Dhaka and Rajshahi.
The minister said special arrangements have already been made in several hospitals for the treatment of measles patients. Ventilator support has been expanded in Rajshahi and Manikganj, and doctors and nurses have been kept on standby alongside increased ventilator facilities in different hospitals.
At this critical moment, he urged health workers at all levels to stand by the country. Acknowledging the challenges faced by healthcare staff, he said the government is aware of their problems and is working to address them.
"I assure you that we will try to resolve your issues as quickly as possible. But at this critical time for the country, we need your full cooperation," he said.
The minister further revealed that 1,306 health assistants involved in vaccination activities have not been paid for a long time, which has caused significant hardship. In addition, more than 25,000 health assistants, assistant health inspectors, and inspectors are awaiting promotions.
"I want to assure them that we will call their representatives today or tomorrow and try to resolve the matter. My only request is that you extend your utmost support during this national crisis," he added.
Measles vaccine shortfall hits Chattogram as demand tops 73 lakh
A severe shortage of measles vaccines has emerged in Chattogram division, where demand has reached over 73 lakh doses but current stock stands at just 83,000.
Health authorities say urgent steps are being taken to procure additional doses and ensure vaccine delivery to hard-to-reach areas through special arrangements.
A total demand for 7,376,235 doses has already been submitted to the health ministry, said Dr Sheikh Fazle Rabbi, director of the Chattogram divisional health department.
He added that a coordinated vaccination plan has been prepared based on requirements collected from 11 districts and two city corporations, targeting children aged between six months and 10 years.
Authorities estimate that at least 2,00,000 additional doses will be urgently needed to manage the situation. Available vaccines will be distributed on a priority basis to city corporations, districts, and upazilas depending on demand and infection rates.
Meanwhile, measles infections have been spreading rapidly among children in Chattogram. Recent reports indicate that two children have died from measles-related pneumonia at Chattogram Medical College Hospital, while four others remain in critical condition. Additionally, 49 children are currently receiving treatment in isolation wards.
