At least eight more children succumbed to measles and related symptoms in Bangladesh on Monday, bringing the total confirmed and suspected deaths to 628 since March 15 this year. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reported these deaths within the 24-hour period leading up to Monday morning. Among the eight fatalities, one was confirmed as a measles death, while the remaining seven passed away with symptoms of the disease.
Reports indicate that the number of confirmed measles-related deaths has now climbed to 92, with suspected deaths surging to 536. The DGHS documented 1,092 suspected measles cases in the last 24 hours, pushing the total count of suspected cases to 80,104. Additionally, 93 new confirmed cases were reported, raising the total to 9,779 during the same period.
Despite claims by the government that vaccination coverage has surpassed 100% of the targeted children, Bangladesh continues to grapple with a severe measles outbreak. This has raised concerns among immunization experts regarding vaccine effectiveness and coverage gaps. Hospitals in the country are admitting over 1,000 children daily with measles or similar symptoms, while fatalities continue to rise.
Public health experts are alarmed by the persistent increase in cases, emphasizing that vaccination coverage alone does not guarantee protection unless children develop sufficient immunity. Be-Nazir Ahmed, former director of the government’s disease control branch, highlighted that measles transmission should significantly decrease once vaccine coverage surpasses 90%. However, the current situation suggests otherwise, indicating potential discrepancies in vaccination coverage data.
Expressing deep concern over the escalating measles outbreak, the Awami League criticized the government for what they termed a “man-made failure of governance.” They attributed the crisis to decisions made during the previous interim administration and the current ruling government. Urging immediate action, the Awami League called for the declaration of a national public health emergency with clear targets, timelines, and transparent reporting. They demanded an accelerated emergency vaccination campaign and treatment with international oversight.
