In the past 24 hours, five children have died in Bangladesh due to complications linked to measles and its associated symptoms, while a further 1,358 children have newly exhibited signs of infection. The continuing spread of the disease has heightened concern within the public health sector.
According to the regular bulletin issued on Monday (27 April) by the Directorate General of Health Services, the outbreak remains widely dispersed across several divisions, with children continuing to face a significant risk of infection.
The report indicates that, over the latest 24-hour period, four children suffering from measles-related symptoms died in the Dhaka, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet divisions—one death in each division. In addition, another child died in the Sylhet division after being confirmed as infected with measles, bringing the total number of deaths within the period to five.
The situation regarding new infections and symptom reporting remains concerning. Within the same 24-hour window, 90 children were confirmed as measles patients, while 1,358 more were identified as showing symptoms consistent with the disease. Since 15 March, a total of 33,386 children have displayed measles-related symptoms nationwide, with confirmed cases reaching 4,693.
Hospitalisation figures also highlight the ongoing burden on the healthcare system. Since mid-March, 22,442 children have required admission to medical facilities due to complications or suspected infection. Of these, 19,018 children have recovered following treatment and have been discharged.
Measles is widely recognised by medical specialists as a highly contagious viral disease, transmitted through respiratory droplets. It spreads rapidly among unvaccinated populations, particularly children with weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include high fever, runny nose, persistent cough, conjunctivitis, and a characteristic red skin rash. Without timely immunisation and supportive care, the disease can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and in some cases, death.
Public health authorities have reiterated the importance of vaccination and early medical intervention in controlling outbreaks and preventing further fatalities.
Summary of the Situation
| Indicator | Number |
|---|---|
| Deaths in last 24 hours | 5 |
| New confirmed cases | 90 |
| New symptom cases | 1,358 |
| Total symptom cases (since 15 March) | 33,386 |
| Total confirmed cases | 4,693 |
| Total hospital admissions | 22,442 |
| Total recoveries and discharges | 19,018 |
Health officials stated that the situation remains under close observation. Hospitals across the country have been instructed to strengthen treatment capacity for paediatric patients. Efforts are also being intensified to raise public awareness and expand immunisation coverage in order to contain further transmission of the virus.