Online Desk 

The number of child deaths linked to measles and measles-like symptoms in Bangladesh continues to rise at an alarming rate. In the last 24 hours alone, 11 more children have died, including five in Sylhet. With these latest fatalities, the total death toll over the past 68 days has reached 499. Public health experts warn that the situation has now evolved into a national health crisis.

According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), among the children who died in the last 24 hours, nine showed symptoms of measles while two were laboratory-confirmed cases. Since March 15, a total of 414 children have died with measles symptoms, while another 85 deaths were officially confirmed as measles-related.

During the same period, 1,261 new children were identified with measles symptoms across the country. Altogether, the number of suspected infections has surpassed 60,540. In addition, laboratory tests have confirmed measles infection in 8,329 children.

Public health experts say that routine vaccination campaigns alone will not be enough to control the outbreak. They stress the urgent need for enhanced surveillance in affected areas, rapid case detection, separate treatment units in hospitals, and special support for malnourished children.

Dr. Mushtaq Hossain, former Chief Scientific Officer of the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), said that although measles cases are increasing globally, Bangladesh’s death rate remains comparatively higher. He emphasized that emergency measures involving coordination among multiple ministries are now essential.

He further noted that establishing new ICU facilities alone would not solve the crisis unless adequate trained manpower is ensured to operate them. Without swift and effective intervention, the situation could worsen further.

Health Directorate data also indicate that the absence of special measles vaccination campaigns over the past four years, along with the suspension of the Vitamin A program last year, has significantly increased the risk. Currently, at least 18 percent of children remain outside the regular immunization system.

Meanwhile, at a protest rally held in the capital, the Public Health Struggle Council demanded an investigation into the child deaths caused by measles, the declaration of a public health emergency, free treatment for affected patients, state-sponsored vaccine production, and compensation for affected families.

Public health expert Dr. Tajul Islam Bari stated that one measles patient can infect up to 18 others. He warned that infected children often develop complications such as pneumonia and diarrhea quickly due to weakened immune systems.

On the other hand, Health Minister Sardar Sakhawat Hossain Bokul claimed that the government has already launched emergency vaccination efforts and that another special immunization campaign will begin after Eid. However, he acknowledged that vaccine supply shortages during 2024 and 2025 significantly contributed to the current crisis.