1 more child dies with Measles symptoms at MMCH

A child has died with measles-like symptoms at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital (MMCH), bringing the total number of deaths in such cases at the facility to 14, hospital authorities said.

The latest victim, a three-month-old boy from Kishoreganj Sadar upazila, died around 12:45pm on Saturday (April 19) while undergoing treatment, according to Associate Professor of the paediatric ward Golam Mawla.

The child had been admitted on April 9 with suspected measles symptoms.

Hospital data shows that 34 new children were admitted over the past 24 hours from Saturday to Sunday morning. Currently, 78 children are receiving treatment in the isolation ward, while 72 have recovered and been discharged.

Since March 17, a total of 611 children with measles-like symptoms have been admitted to the hospital, of whom 519 have already been released.

On Sunday morning, anxious parents were seen crowded in the isolation ward on the eighth floor of the hospital’s new building, many expressing deep concern over the rising number of cases.

“After fever and cold, doctors confirmed measles infection. We have been here for a week,” said Sharmin Chowdhury, a mother accompanying her four-month-old child. “Seeing other mothers losing their children is terrifying.”

Associate Professor Golam Mawla said measles is highly contagious and continues to spread among children. “Parents must remain alert and ensure timely vaccination. We are providing maximum care despite limited manpower,” he added.

Health experts continue to stress vaccination and early medical attention as the most effective measures to contain the outbreak.