The measles outbreak in Bangladesh continues to worsen, with seven more deaths reported across the country in the past 24 hours, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
Health authorities said three of the latest deaths were confirmed measles cases, while four others involved patients with suspected measles symptoms.
During the same period, 1,423 new suspected measles cases and 208 laboratory-confirmed infections were recorded nationwide.
The latest figures were released on Thursday in a statement issued by the Health Emergency Operation Center and Control Room of the DGHS, based on data collected up to Thursday morning.
Since 15 March, a total of 488 people have died from confirmed and suspected measles-related complications across the country. Of them, 83 deaths were confirmed through laboratory testing, while 405 involved patients with measles-like symptoms.
According to DGHS data, Bangladesh has recorded 59,279 suspected measles cases between 15 March and 21 May. Among them, 8,275 infections have been confirmed through laboratory testing.
The outbreak has placed growing pressure on the healthcare system, with 46,407 patients admitted to hospitals during the period. So far, 42,336 patients have recovered and been discharged after treatment.
An analysis of divisional data showed that Dhaka and Chattogram divisions reported the highest numbers of infections and deaths over the last 24 hours.
Meanwhile, the nationwide vaccination campaign in city corporation areas has surpassed its initial targets in several regions.
Health authorities set a target of vaccinating 19.05 lakh children in city corporation areas, but more than 20.07 lakh children have already received vaccines, resulting in an overall coverage rate of 105 percent.
Gazipur City Corporation recorded the highest coverage rate at 112 per cent of its target population.
Dhaka North City Corporation and Rajshahi City Corporation each achieved 109 per cent coverage, while Rangpur City Corporation reported the lowest coverage rate at 97 per cent.
Health officials have continued to urge parents to vaccinate children and seek immediate medical attention if measles symptoms appear, amid concerns over the rapid spread of the disease nationwide.
