Bangladesh is facing its worst measles outbreak in decades, with 1,002 children dead since March and more than 187,000 infected. Authorities admit that about 4 million children have missed vaccination.
Bangladesh is confronting a severe measles crisis after at least 1,002 children have died from the disease since March, with over 187,000 child infections reported. Health officials acknowledge that failures in vaccination campaigns may have contributed to the outbreak's severity.
Data from Bangladesh's Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) shows that this year’s measles outbreak—with its death and infection toll—is the deadliest in decades for the country.
Measles is highly contagious, spreading through droplets from coughing or sneezing, and currently has no specific cure. It can cause serious complications such as brain swelling and breathing problems, with young children being particularly vulnerable.
Despite a major vaccination push by Bangladeshi authorities to control the outbreak, the disease continues to spread. Officials say over 18 million children have now been vaccinated, while efforts continue to reach those still unvaccinated.
DGHS spokesperson Zahid Raihan admitted that Bangladesh has not yet achieved herd immunity because approximately 4 million children have been missed by vaccination programs, leaving significant vulnerable populations that enable the disease to spread further.
Officials note that controlling measles cannot rely solely on vaccination but must also address child malnutrition, which can worsen symptoms and increase the risk of death.
At the same time, Bangladesh’s healthcare system is also dealing with a dengue fever outbreak, overwhelming hospitals. Some facilities designed for about 50 dengue patients are currently treating up to 500.
On 8 September alone, nine people died from dengue fever, and 1,571 patients were hospitalized. Since the start of the year, Bangladesh has recorded 45,475 dengue cases and 130 deaths.
Deputy Health Minister A. Muhit warned that dengue cases may rise further in the coming weeks and urged the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. He cautioned that without swift control measures, dengue could reach a critical stage from late September to early October.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is scheduled to launch a nationwide three-month dengue prevention and control campaign this Saturday.
. Source:channelnewsasia
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