Bangladesh measles epidemic approaches 1,000 child deaths as cases top 180,000
Since March, Bangladesh has recorded nearly 1,000 child fatalities and over 180,000 suspected or confirmed measles cases, according to health ministry data. Hospitals in Dhaka, including Shishu Hospital, are filled with infants battling pneumonia, measles complications and malnutrition, with more than 100 children currently on dedicated measles wards. Parents such as Rima Akter and Sanjana Islam Modina describe the need for prolonged oxygen therapy and intensive care for their babies.
The government has begun a nationwide vaccination drive, but many children missed earlier doses, leaving gaps in immunity. Special assistant SM Ziauddin Hyder, working for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, called the situation “devastating.”
Why it matters
The outbreak highlights critical gaps in vaccination coverage and strains an already overstretched health system, putting vulnerable children at risk.
How this story developed
- Sep 5 Bangladesh measles outbreak nears 1,000 child deaths as hospitals overflow
- Sep 9 The government has begun a nationwide vaccination drive.
