Measles Claims Two More Children Within 24 Hours

Bangladesh recorded two more child deaths linked to suspected measles infections over the past 24 hours, while 833 additional children were reported to have contracted measles or developed symptoms consistent with the disease, according to the latest update from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

The figures were released in a press statement issued by the DGHS on Saturday. Health authorities said the two children who died during the reporting period had exhibited symptoms associated with measles. However, laboratory confirmation had not established measles as the direct cause of either death.

The latest fatalities have added to the growing toll since the current surge began earlier this year. According to the DGHS, a total of 638 children have died with suspected measles symptoms nationwide since 15 March. During the same period, 93 additional children have died after laboratory tests confirmed measles infection.

Taken together, the country has recorded 731 child deaths associated either with confirmed measles infections or suspected measles-related symptoms over the reporting period, highlighting the continued public health challenge posed by the disease.

The health authorities also reported that the number of newly identified cases remains high. Since 15 March, Bangladesh has documented 104,693 suspected measles cases across the country. Of those, 12,526 have been confirmed through laboratory testing.

Measles is one of the world’s most contagious viral diseases, spreading rapidly through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Young children are particularly vulnerable, especially those who have not received the recommended vaccinations or whose immune systems are weakened. Common symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and the characteristic skin rash. In severe cases, complications such as pneumonia, diarrhoea, malnutrition and brain inflammation can develop, particularly among children.

Public health experts continue to stress that routine immunisation remains the most effective means of preventing measles outbreaks. Early diagnosis, prompt medical care and timely isolation of infected patients are also considered essential in reducing transmission and preventing serious complications.

The DGHS has urged parents and guardians to seek immediate medical attention if children develop fever, skin rashes or other symptoms associated with measles. The health authority has also reiterated the importance of ensuring that all eligible children receive their scheduled vaccinations under the national immunisation programme.

The latest surveillance data indicate that both infections and deaths continue to place considerable pressure on the country’s healthcare system. Health officials say monitoring efforts, case detection, treatment services and vaccination activities remain ongoing as authorities work to contain the spread of the disease and reduce preventable child deaths.