Measles infections are rising across several districts, increasing pressure on hospitals and fuelling public concern, as Bangladesh simultaneously faces a severe shortage of 10 life-saving vaccines, including measles.
Health Services Division Secretary Kamruzzaman Chowdhury said the government has already paid Tk604 crore to UNICEF to address the shortage.
“Vaccines will arrive soon, and nationwide immunisation will begin immediately,” he said after visiting Rajshahi Medical College Hospital on Tuesday.
He added that authorities have identified measles hotspots and taken special measures to boost immunity among children in affected areas.
Brahmanbaria
Patient pressure has surged at the 250-bed Brahmanbaria General Hospital following reports of measles infections circulating on social media. The paediatric ward, which has a capacity of 25 beds, currently accommodates around 70 children.
Hospital authorities suspect at least seven children of measles infection. All patients are receiving treatment in the same ward for now, though officials said suspected cases will be shifted to a separate unit.
Doctors reported a steady rise in children with fever, pneumonia and cold-related illnesses. Admission numbers reached 87 on Saturday, 83 on Sunday, and 70 on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, large crowds have gathered at vaccination centres as concerned parents rush to immunise their children.
Officials said 200–250 children receive vaccines daily, with a rising number seeking measles shots.
Thakurgaon
Four children have been infected with measles and rubella in Thakurgaon, increasing concern among parents. Two children are undergoing treatment for measles, while two others have contracted rubella.
Health officials said measles presents symptoms such as fever, rash, cough and red eyes, and spreads rapidly through respiratory droplets.
Authorities have set up a four-bed isolation unit at the district hospital. Two affected children have already received treatment and returned home.
Officials warned that incomplete vaccination may be contributing to the spread and urged parents to ensure timely Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination.
Netrokona
Measles cases have also increased in Netrokona, where seven children were admitted to the district hospital over the past week. Four remain hospitalised as of Tuesday morning.
Doctors have opened a dedicated measles corner and isolation unit for treatment. One child has developed pneumonia and remains in critical condition.
Physicians advised parents to seek immediate medical attention if children develop fever with rash and to keep infected children isolated to prevent further spread.
Chattogram
A child death has been reported in Chattogram with measles-like symptoms. The child, aged under six months, died on Tuesday morning at Chattogram Medical College Hospital after being brought from Cox’s Bazar the previous night.
Civil Surgeon Jahangir Alam confirmed the death, saying the exact cause will be known after laboratory test results.
As of Tuesday morning, seven measles cases and one rubella infection have been confirmed in the district.
Another 29 patients with measles symptoms remain hospitalised, while samples from 75 suspected cases have been sent for testing.
Health experts across districts warned that measles, a highly contagious viral disease, can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and diarrhoea if left untreated.
They urged parents not to panic but to ensure timely vaccination and seek medical care at the first sign of symptoms.
