Four more deaths linked to measles infection and related symptoms have been reported across the country in the past 24 hours, raising the total death toll to 217, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
The Health Emergency Operation Centre and Control Room of the DGHS confirmed that among the latest fatalities, one case was laboratory-confirmed measles, while three others were suspected cases showing measles-like symptoms.
Health officials said the overall measles situation in the country continues to deteriorate.
Official figures show that between 15 March and 19 April, 2026, a total of 217 deaths have been recorded in connection with measles and suspected infections. Of these, 36 were confirmed measles-related deaths, while 181 were classified as suspected or symptom-based cases.
In the last 24 hours alone, 1,197 new suspected measles cases were reported nationwide, bringing the total number of suspected cases to 23,606 during the same period. Dhaka Division recorded the highest number of suspected infections with 563 cases.
During the same reporting period, laboratory tests confirmed 165 new infections, including 148 cases in Dhaka Division. This brings the total number of confirmed measles cases in the country to 3,443.
DGHS further reported that 888 patients were admitted to hospitals in the past 24 hours, while 12,396 patients have recovered and been discharged so far.
To contain the outbreak, the government is conducting special vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas. According to DGHS data updated up to the evening of 18 April, ongoing immunisation drives launched on 5 and 12 April are being carried out across 30 upazilas, 13 municipalities, and four city corporations.
Authorities said a total of 2,180,105 children were targeted for vaccination, of whom 1,487,192 have been vaccinated so far. Regional data shows Rajshahi Division has achieved the highest coverage at 110 percent, while Barishal, Chattogram, Khulna, and Mymensingh divisions have reached or exceeded 100 percent coverage.
Dhaka Division, however, currently stands at 93 percent.
