38 children die from measles outbreak across country

At least 38 children have died so far this year in a severe measles outbreak sweeping across the country. The infection has spread rapidly in various districts including Dhaka, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Chapainawabganj, Noakhali and Chattogram. Of the deaths, 32 occurred in March alone. The situation has become increasingly alarming with two more suspected measles deaths reported in Rajshahi in the last 24 hours.

According to health department and hospital sources, the highest number of child deaths—21—has occurred at the Infectious Diseases Hospital in Mohakhali, capital. Additionally, six children died at Bangladesh Children's Hospital and Institute, five at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, four in Chapainawabganj, and one each in Rajshahi and Pabna. Officials fear the total death toll may exceed 46 once figures from various district and private hospitals are included.

The 100-bed Infectious Diseases Hospital in Mohakhali has admitted 560 measles patients this year, compared to just 69 during the entire last year. Hospital Superintendent Tanjina Jahan said 448 patients were admitted in the first 29 days of March alone.

The situation at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital is even more concerning. Hospital authorities reported two suspected measles deaths in the last 24 hours, bringing the total suspected measles deaths there to three. Currently, 98 patients are admitted, with 16 new admissions recorded. A separate isolation centre has been opened for patients.

At Chattogram Medical College Hospital, an infant under six months old with measles symptoms also died. The child, brought from Cox's Bazar, died in the ICU on Tuesday morning. Samples have been sent to Dhaka for testing.

Experts say disruptions in the vaccination programme are the primary cause of the outbreak. Professor Dr Lutfunnesa, former head of the Paediatric Department at Dhaka Medical College, said while the first dose coverage is adequate, there is reluctance to take the second dose. Infection is spreading rapidly from small clusters of unvaccinated individuals.

EPI Director Shahriar Sajjad said a special measles vaccination campaign is scheduled every four years, but this could not be held in 2024. Additionally, the regular immunisation programme was disrupted several times last year due to strikes by health assistants.

The health department has reported a shortage of vaccines for 10 life-threatening diseases, including measles. The government has paid Tk 604 crore to UNICEF to address the shortage, and a special vaccination campaign will begin soon after the vaccines arrive.

Following his visit to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Health Services Division Secretary Kamruzzaman Chowdhury said hotspots with high infection rates are being identified for special initiatives. Coordination with various hospitals is also underway to strengthen treatment for affected children.

Meanwhile, following outrage over child deaths at RMCH, three new ventilators were handed over to the hospital's ICU on Tuesday. Authorities have also announced the rapid operationalisation of a 200-bed specialised hospital.

Doctors said measles is highly contagious and spreads quickly, leading to complications such as pneumonia, diarrhoea and encephalitis. Emphasis has been placed on ensuring prompt vaccination for children, vitamin A supplementation and nutritious food.