19 children die of measles at a single hospital in Dhaka

A sudden surge in measles cases has been reported across the country. In March alone, 19 children have died at the Infectious Diseases Hospital in the capital, Dhaka.

Doctors say the rise in infections is due to delayed vaccinations, vaccine shortages, and the failure to administer government booster doses on time. However, the Health Minister said the government is fully prepared to মোকাবিলা the situation.

Umme Kulsum has been rushing from one hospital to another with her 10-month-old child, Inara, traveling from Patuakhali to Barishal and then Dhaka. Like her, many parents are seeking treatment for their infected children, living in fear of losing them. Meanwhile, doctors and nurses are struggling to cope with the growing patient load.

“After coming here, my child has been given medicines and injections. The doctor said she needs to stay admitted until she recovers,” said Umme Kulsum.

Doctors noted that lack of awareness and reluctance toward regular vaccination are worsening the situation. As of Sunday afternoon, more than 120 measles patients were admitted to the Infectious Diseases Hospital, with 19 child deaths recorded in March alone.

Consultant pediatrician Dr. A.R.M. Sakhawat Hossain said many parents are unwilling to vaccinate their children. He noted that booster doses, usually administered every five years for children aged 9 months to 15 years, were not given this time. The last campaign was conducted in 2020.

Health Minister Sardar Sakhawat Hossain Bakul said the government has taken all necessary preparations to control the outbreak, including allocating Tk 604 crore for new vaccine procurement.

He added that all wards at DNCC Hospital in Dhaka have been kept ready, with ventilator and ICU facilities ensured. Similar preparations have been taken at the Infectious Diseases Hospital.

Experts have urged parents to seek immediate medical advice if measles symptoms appear.