4 upazilas in Ctg lack dedicated ‘measles corners’ as cases surge
According to the District Health Department, suspected cases jumped from 55 in late March to 81 by Thursday.
Despite a rapid rise in measles cases across the district, four upazila health complexes in Chattogram still do not have separate "measles corners" to isolate infected patients.
According to district health officials, no dedicated isolation facilities have yet been established in Karnaphuli, Sandwip, Hathazari, and Raozan upazilas, despite the growing spread of the disease.
So far, 155 samples have been sent for laboratory testing, and 12 children have been confirmed as infected, including eight from various upazilas. Most recently, measles was confirmed in two children in Lohagara and Patiya upazilas.
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According to the District Health Department, suspected cases jumped from 55 in late March to 81 by Thursday (2 April), a 45% increase in just two days.
On the latest count, 16 patients with symptoms of measles and pneumonia were admitted in a single day. Additionally, two children have died at Chattogram Medical College Hospital (CMCH).
CMCH has converted its paediatric dengue unit into a 50-bed measles ward. Chattogram General Hospital and the Bangladesh Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases (BITID) have also allocated dedicated beds.
Chattogram General Hospital is using its Covid block and ICU with eight beds. The BITID has also set up a six-bed isolation facility.
Health authorities have instructed all government hospitals to tighten precautions, isolate suspected patients, and step up vaccination, while urging parents to stay alert.
Local officials say bed shortages are preventing the establishment of separate measles corners. In Raozan upazila, patients are being advised to isolate themselves at home. Officials in Sandwip have reported similar constraints.
District Civil Surgeon Jahangir Alam said isolation directives were issued, but some facilities have yet to act due to no confirmed cases; the situation will be reviewed and necessary steps taken
Public health experts have warned that failing to isolate measles patients properly could accelerate the spread of the highly contagious virus, which spreads easily through coughing and sneezing.
Field reports indicate that infrastructural limitations and lower patient loads have delayed dedicated measles units in some upazilas.
However, rising numbers of children with fever, cough, and cold symptoms suggest the outbreak could worsen without stronger containment measures.
