Over 500 Children Dead as Measles Outbreak Sweeps Bangladesh

A deadly measles outbreak in Bangladesh has claimed the lives of more than 500 children, marking the country’s worst surge of the disease in decades.

Health officials confirmed that at least 512 children have died since March 15, with 13 new deaths recorded in the last 24 hours alone. Most of the victims are children between six months and five years old.

Hospitals in the capital city, Dhaka, are struggling to cope with the growing number of patients, as special measles wards become overcrowded and intensive care beds remain limited.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease spread through coughing and sneezing. It can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, respiratory infections and death, especially among unvaccinated or malnourished children.

The Bangladeshi government has launched a nationwide vaccination campaign to contain the outbreak. According to UNICEF, more than 18 million children have already been vaccinated, although officials warn it may take months before the campaign significantly reduces infections.

UNICEF said disruptions caused by the 2024 student-led protests that removed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina weakened immunisation programmes and left many children vulnerable to disease.

Doctors treating patients say many children arrive at hospitals in critical condition, suffering from breathing difficulties and severe infections affecting the eyes, throat and lungs.

Health experts are now urging stronger vaccination programmes, improved healthcare funding and better disease surveillance systems to prevent future outbreaks.

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