Bangladesh Measles Death Toll Hits 738 as Outbreak Intensifies

Bangladesh’s measles outbreak has claimed 738 lives since March 15, with seven more children dying in the 24 hours ending Sunday morning. The latest figures from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) highlight a worsening crisis, with suspected cases now exceeding 105,600 nationwide.

Of the total fatalities, 645 are suspected measles deaths, while laboratory-confirmed deaths stand at 93. In the past day alone, authorities recorded 925 new suspected cases and 106 confirmed infections.

Dhaka remains a primary hotspot. The DNCC COVID-19 Dedicated Hospital in Mohakhali is currently treating a high volume of children, with new cases being referred daily from other facilities. Nationwide, hospitalizations have reached 88,844 since the start of the outbreak. While 85,122 patients have recovered, the steady stream of new infections continues to strain the healthcare system.

The crisis is further complicated by systemic oversight challenges. Health experts recently noted that manpower shortages in regions like Savar have left private healthcare facilities poorly monitored. With some clinics operating without licenses or qualified staff, the public remains particularly vulnerable during this infectious surge. Health officials urge parents to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical attention for children showing symptoms as the country struggles to contain the spread.