4 die with measles symptoms in 24 hours across country

Four more children have died with measles symptoms across the country in the last 24 hours. During the same period, 1,148 people were newly identified as suspected measles patients. This is the figure for the period from 8am on Saturday to 8am on Sunday.

The information was provided in the regular measles situation report published by the Directorate General of Health Services on Sunday, September 20.

According to DGHS data, 179,814 children have been identified with suspected measles across the country from March 15 to date. During this period, measles was confirmed in 20,562 children. At the same time, 956 children died with suspected measles. Among them, measles was confirmed as the cause of death for 101 children.

The report further said that 158,589 children have been hospitalised at various hospitals across the country with suspected measles from March 15 to date. After treatment, 152,225 have recovered and returned home with discharge.

Dhaka division has been the most affected by the measles situation. In the last 24 hours, 449 new suspected measles patients were identified in this division. During the same period, two children died with measles symptoms in Dhaka district. With this, the number of deaths with suspected measles in Dhaka division has reached 430.

After Dhaka, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions are next in terms of identifying new patients. In the last 24 hours, 269 people in Chattogram division and 145 in Sylhet division were identified as suspected measles patients.

According to DGHS statistics, the measles situation in the country is still at an alarming level. In particular, the number of infections and deaths in Dhaka division is higher than in other divisions. Alongside regular surveillance and treatment, concerned officials are emphasising strengthening vaccination programmes to prevent measles in children.