Bangladesh faces deadly measles outbreak as hospitals strain under surge

Bangladesh is grappling with a devastating measles epidemic that has resulted in a high child death toll and placed enormous pressure on hospitals, some of which are operating at double capacity. Although an emergency immunisation effort has already vaccinated a large portion of the pediatric population, new infections keep rising, with official figures indicating a steep increase since the start of the year. The World Health Organization reports that the country currently records the most measles cases globally.

UNICEF announced that a more intensive round of vaccinations will commence on September 26 to target children who have not yet received the jab. Health experts highlight that most cases occur among unvaccinated children, including very young infants who are especially vulnerable. Overcrowded living conditions and delays in routine immunisations during the COVID-19 pandemic are cited as contributing factors.