Three people suspected of having measles have died across Bangladesh in the past 24 hours, while 1,218 new infections were reported during the same period, reflecting the continued spread of the disease nationwide.
The latest figures were released on Friday (7 August) in a press statement issued by the Control Room of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), which has been monitoring the country’s measles situation since the current surge began earlier this year.
According to the DGHS, 1,017 people were identified as suspected measles patients over the past 24 hours. Since 15 March, the cumulative number of suspected measles cases has reached 134,655, indicating that the disease continues to place considerable pressure on Bangladesh’s healthcare system.
Laboratory surveillance also recorded 201 newly confirmed measles cases during the reporting period. This brings the total number of confirmed infections between 15 March and 7 August to 16,941.
The health authorities said a significant number of patients have required hospital treatment since the outbreak intensified. During the reporting period, a total of 116,822 suspected measles patients were admitted to hospitals across the country. Of them, 112,525 have recovered sufficiently to be discharged after receiving treatment.
The latest report also highlights the continuing human toll of the outbreak. Three people classified as suspected measles patients died in the last 24 hours. Since 15 March, the number of deaths among suspected measles cases has reached 767 children.
No deaths were recorded among laboratory-confirmed measles patients during the past day. However, since 15 March, the cumulative number of confirmed measles-related deaths has risen to 96.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It commonly begins with fever, cough, a runny nose and red eyes before a characteristic skin rash develops. Young children, particularly those with weakened immune systems or poor nutritional status, face a greater risk of developing severe complications.
Public health officials have repeatedly stressed the importance of timely vaccination as the most effective protection against measles. They have also advised parents and caregivers to seek prompt medical attention if children develop symptoms consistent with the disease, as early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help reduce the risk of serious complications.
The latest figures released by the DGHS indicate that health authorities continue to monitor the evolving situation closely while maintaining surveillance and treatment services as the outbreak persists.
