Measles death toll rises to 336, 12 new fatalities nationwide

At least 12 more people died from measles and measles-related symptoms across the country in the last 24 hours, while 1,524 new cases and symptoms were reported during the same period, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

The Health Emergency Operation Center and Control Room of the DGHS released the figures on Thursday afternoon.

Of the latest deaths, seven were children. Five died with measles-related symptoms, while two died after being confirmed with measles.

With the latest fatalities, the total death toll in the past 52 days has risen to 336. Among them, 268 children died with symptoms, while 56 died after being infected with measles.

During the same period, 1,054 children were admitted to hospitals across the country’s eight divisions, while 373 new infections were confirmed. Sylhet Division recorded the highest number of cases with 182, followed by Dhaka Division with 122.

However, 855 children returned home after receiving treatment in the last 24 hours, offering some relief. So far, a total of 44,260 people have received treatment.

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Public health experts said that although increased vaccine supply is a positive step, stronger surveillance, faster detection, better treatment facilities, and special attention to high-risk groups are urgently needed to control the outbreak.

Public health expert Mushtaq Hossain said rapid vaccination, patient isolation, targeted action in high-risk areas, and free treatment must be ensured to improve the situation.

Meanwhile, deaths from measles symptoms continue at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, where one more infant aged four and a half months died in the last 24 hours.

In the past one and a half months, 26 children have died at the hospital. Since March 17, a total of 1,105 children have been admitted there, with 75 still undergoing treatment. Hospital authorities said pressure on the pediatric ward has increased significantly, forcing many patients to receive treatment on the floor.