Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 6th July 2026, 6:17 PM
Dhaka, 6 July: Bangladesh continues to face a worrying measles outbreak, with health authorities reporting three additional suspected measles-related deaths over the past 24 hours. During the same period, 1,106 people were newly identified with symptoms or confirmed infection, underlining the continued spread of the highly contagious viral disease across the country.
According to a press release issued by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Sunday, 947 people were recorded as suspected measles cases within the past day. Laboratory testing also confirmed measles infection in a further 159 patients, bringing the total number of newly identified cases during the reporting period to 1,106.
The latest figures indicate that the outbreak remains a significant public health challenge. Since 15 March, the cumulative number of suspected measles cases nationwide has risen to 106,565. During the same period, laboratory tests have confirmed 12,791 infections, highlighting the sustained transmission of the virus despite ongoing monitoring and response efforts.
Hospital data also reflects the considerable strain placed on the healthcare system. Since the outbreak intensified in mid-March, a total of 89,734 patients with suspected measles have been admitted to hospitals across Bangladesh. Of those, 86,062 have completed treatment and been discharged after recovering. Nevertheless, thousands of patients continue to receive medical care, indicating that health facilities remain under pressure.
The death toll associated with the outbreak continues to cause concern. Health authorities reported three suspected measles deaths during the past 24 hours. As a result, the cumulative number of suspected child deaths linked to measles between 15 March and 6 July has reached 648.
No new deaths were recorded among laboratory-confirmed measles patients during the latest reporting period. However, since the beginning of the outbreak, the total number of confirmed measles-related deaths has reached 93.
| Indicator | Latest Situation |
|---|---|
| Reporting date | 6 July |
| Suspected deaths (last 24 hours) | 3 |
| New suspected cases (last 24 hours) | 947 |
| Newly confirmed cases (last 24 hours) | 159 |
| Total new cases (last 24 hours) | 1,106 |
| Outbreak monitoring period | 15 March – 6 July |
| Total suspected cases | 106,565 |
| Total confirmed cases | 12,791 |
| Total hospital admissions | 89,734 |
| Patients discharged after recovery | 86,062 |
| Cumulative suspected child deaths | 648 |
| Cumulative confirmed deaths | 93 |
Public health specialists have consistently warned that measles is one of the world’s most infectious viral diseases, spreading rapidly through respiratory droplets when infected individuals cough or sneeze. Young children remain particularly vulnerable to severe complications, especially if they are unvaccinated or have weakened immune systems.
Medical experts stress that routine immunisation remains the most effective defence against measles. Prompt identification of suspected cases, timely treatment, appropriate isolation of infected individuals where necessary, and adherence to recommended public health measures are all considered essential to limiting further transmission.
The Directorate General of Health Services said it continues to closely monitor the evolving situation across the country. Alongside ensuring treatment for affected patients, health officials are maintaining public awareness campaigns and surveillance activities aimed at reducing transmission and encouraging eligible children to receive routine measles vaccinations.
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