At least four more individuals have succumbed to measles and related symptoms in Bangladesh, bringing the total number of confirmed and suspected deaths to 605 since March 15 this year. The recent deaths were reported within a 24-hour period leading up to Thursday morning, as stated by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Among the four fatalities, one was confirmed as a measles-related death, while the other three individuals passed away with symptoms of the disease.
Reports indicate a significant increase in confirmed deaths to 91, with suspected deaths reaching 514. Over the past 24 hours, 1,136 new suspected cases have been recorded, pushing the total to 75,708. Additionally, there have been 69 new confirmed cases reported, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 9,260 during the same timeframe.
The measles outbreak in Bangladesh has seen a troubling surge in infections, leading to more complications and fatalities among children, according to an editorial in the Daily Star newspaper. This health crisis has placed immense strain on healthcare facilities nationwide, especially in pediatric ICU support, isolation wards, ventilatory care, and infection-control systems.
Expressing deep concern over the worsening measles situation in the country, the Awami League has criticized the governance failures that have exacerbated the crisis. The party attributed the roots of the tragedy to decisions made during the former Muhammad Yunus-led interim administration and continued under the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party-led government.
In September 2025, during the interim regime, officials reportedly shifted from a reliable vaccine procurement system through UNICEF to a more complex open tender process, despite warnings from UNICEF. This decision resulted in a significant immunity gap among millions of children, particularly those under five, who are now the majority of victims. The Awami League described this as a ‘man-made massacre’ due to administrative arrogance and incompetence.
Despite being aware of the escalating crisis, the response from the current government has been deemed inadequate by the Awami League. As the measles-related death toll continues to rise, urgent action has been urged, including declaring a national public health emergency with clear targets, timelines, and daily public reporting. The party has called for an accelerated emergency vaccination campaign and transparent treatment with international oversight.
Furthermore, the Awami League has demanded an independent, time-bound investigation into the procurement failures under the interim government and holding those responsible accountable for the situation.
