Dhaka, March 31: Bangladesh is grappling with a measles outbreak, with six new patients exhibiting symptoms admitted to Chittagong Medical College Hospital (CMCH), bringing the total to 18 in the pediatric ward.
Dr. Muhammad Musa, head of the pediatric department at CMCH, confirmed that all patients are currently in isolation.
Reports indicate that measles is spreading in Dhaka and several other districts. This year, the infectious disease and its complications have led to the deaths of 38 children. Notably, 32 of these fatalities occurred in March alone, with 21 reported at the Infectious Diseases Hospital (IDH) in Mohakhali, including three deaths on Sunday. The increasing patient numbers have put significant pressure on hospitals nationwide.
Health experts attribute the outbreak primarily to a decline in vaccination coverage. Many children miss out on the Extended Program on Immunization (EPI) or do not receive the full dosage, making them more susceptible to infections.
Reports suggest that numerous children do not return for vaccinations. Additionally, occasional vaccine shortages exacerbate the situation.
Despite overall high vaccination coverage, approximately 10% of children remain unvaccinated. The government periodically conducts “catch-up” campaigns to address this gap; however, a proposed program set for the end of 2024 could not be implemented due to adverse circumstances, leaving many children at risk.
Experts warn that this situation, combined with high population density and widespread malnutrition, has contributed to the rapid spread of the disease.
Junior consultant Shrebash Paul at the IDH reported that in the first three months of 2026, the hospital admitted 560 measles patients, a stark contrast to just 69 in 2025.
The monthly admission figures have surged, rising from 35 in January to 88 in February, with a dramatic spike in March. Previously, only 10% of samples tested positive, but this year, that figure has soared to 90%.
Paul noted that most infected children are under nine months old and have not yet been vaccinated.
Due to the overwhelming pressure on hospitals, patients are being treated on cabin floors, in corridors, and even in front of elevators due to a lack of beds. Although the Bangladeshi government has instructed other hospitals to admit measles patients, the situation remains critical.
Experts are urging an increase in vaccination coverage, improved public awareness, and the swift implementation of catch-up campaigns to control this outbreak.
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My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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