Measles Outbreak Deepens Across Sylhet

The spread of measles and its associated complications, particularly pneumonia, continues to raise serious concern across Bangladesh’s Sylhet Division, where health authorities are reporting a steady increase in infections, hospital admissions, and deaths. Since the beginning of the year, 69 children and one nurse have died after suffering from measles symptoms and pneumonia-related complications, prompting intensified monitoring by public health officials.

According to the latest report from the Sylhet Divisional Office of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), 80 new patients displaying measles-like symptoms were admitted to hospitals across the division during the past 24 hours. Laboratory testing conducted over the same period confirmed four additional measles infections.

Health officials report that a total of 297 patients are currently receiving treatment in public and private healthcare facilities throughout the division. The growing number of admissions has placed additional pressure on hospitals, particularly those in Sylhet and Sunamganj districts.

Sylhet Divisional Health Director Dr Mahbubul Alam stated that between 1 January and 15 June, a total of 322 measles cases were confirmed across the division. Sunamganj recorded the highest number of infections, accounting for more than half of all confirmed cases. Significant numbers of patients were also identified in Sylhet, Habiganj and Moulvibazar districts. In Habiganj, laboratory examinations additionally detected rubella infection in two measles patients.

Confirmed Measles Cases by District

Hospital admission figures from the past 24 hours indicate that Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital admitted 29 new patients, while Shaheed Shamsuddin Ahmed Hospital received 27. Sunamganj District Sadar Hospital admitted 17 patients, and Moulvibazar District Sadar Hospital admitted five. Additional admissions were reported at Women’s Medical Hospital, Kanaighat Upazila Health Complex and several other healthcare facilities.

The largest concentration of patients currently undergoing treatment is at Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, where 94 individuals remain hospitalised. Sunamganj District Sadar Hospital is treating 50 patients, while several public and private facilities across the division continue to manage growing caseloads.

Patients Currently Receiving Treatment

Although no new suspected measles-related deaths were recorded during the last 24 hours, the cumulative death toll remains a major concern for health authorities. Medical experts note that measles is among the most contagious viral diseases and can spread rapidly among unvaccinated children. The disease may lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, which is regarded as one of the leading causes of death among children infected with measles.

Health officials have emphasised that timely vaccination remains the most effective protection against the disease. Authorities have strengthened treatment facilities, expanded disease surveillance and continued case-detection efforts across the division. Parents and guardians are being urged to ensure that children receive all recommended vaccinations on schedule.

Despite the rise in patient numbers, divisional health authorities maintain that intensified treatment, surveillance and preventive measures are being implemented to contain the outbreak and reduce the risk of further complications and fatalities.