Bangladesh measles epidemic approaches 1,000 child fatalities amid soaring case numbers

Since March, Bangladesh has recorded nearly 1,000 child deaths from a measles surge that health officials describe as the deadliest in decades. Over 180,000 children have been reported as suspected or confirmed cases, with more than 1,000 new infections each day. Dhaka’s Shishu Hospital is filled with infants battling pneumonia, measles complications and malnutrition, as families like Rima Akter and Sanjana Islam Modina struggle to secure intensive care.

The government has begun a nationwide vaccination drive, yet many children missed earlier doses, creating immunity gaps. SM Ziauddin Hyder, special assistant to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for health, called the situation “devastating,” while epidemiologist Mahmudur Rahman urged a larger campaign and greater public awareness of hygiene and isolation practices.