Two more children have died while undergoing treatment for symptoms associated with measles in Sylhet division, taking the number of deaths linked to suspected or laboratory-confirmed measles cases in the region to 127 this year.
The latest deaths occurred over the past 24 hours, according to the divisional health authorities, who confirmed the development on Monday morning, 10 August. The two children were identified as Taspia and Hamidul. Both were under 18 months old and died while receiving treatment at Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital and Shaheed Shamsuddin Ahmed Hospital respectively.
The latest fatalities come as health facilities across the division continue to treat a large number of children with suspected measles. Health Directorate data show that 309 patients with measles-like symptoms are currently receiving treatment at different hospitals in Sylhet division.
During the same 24-hour period, laboratory tests confirmed measles in 25 additional patients. Another 132 suspected patients were admitted to hospitals after developing symptoms consistent with the disease.
The figures indicate that transmission remains active across the division, with hospitals continuing to receive new patients even as others remain under treatment. The situation is particularly concerning for infants and very young children, who may face a greater risk of serious complications when affected by a highly contagious infection.
From 1 January to 10 August 2026, laboratory tests have confirmed measles in 852 patients across Sylhet division, according to the health authorities. However, the death toll is calculated differently from the confirmed case count. It includes children who died after developing symptoms strongly suggestive of measles, as well as those whose infection was confirmed through laboratory testing.
Of the 127 children who have died so far, measles infection was laboratory-confirmed in six cases. In the remaining cases, the children had symptoms associated with measles, but laboratory confirmation was not available. The combined figure therefore represents both confirmed and suspected measles-related deaths and should not be interpreted as 127 laboratory-confirmed measles fatalities.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that commonly begins with fever, a runny nose, cough and red or watery eyes. A characteristic reddish rash usually develops several days after the initial symptoms. While many children recover, severe illness can occur, particularly among those whose physical condition is already weakened. Complications can include pneumonia, severe dehydration and other serious health problems.
The continued rise in suspected cases has placed additional pressure on hospitals in Sylhet. With hundreds of children currently receiving treatment and new admissions being recorded, health facilities must manage both the clinical needs of existing patients and the ongoing arrival of suspected cases.
Public health specialists stress the importance of early identification and appropriate medical care. Children suspected of having measles should also be kept away from other children where possible because the virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets and close contact.
Health officials have also urged parents and caregivers to remain alert to warning signs. A child developing persistent fever, cough, cold-like symptoms, red eyes or a widespread rash should be taken to a healthcare facility promptly rather than being treated without medical advice.
Expanding vaccination coverage and identifying children who have missed routine immunisation are also regarded as key measures in containing transmission. The health authorities are continuing to monitor the situation as suspected admissions and laboratory-confirmed cases rise across the division.
