Nearly 600 children die in measles outbreak so far

Six more children died with measles-like symptoms in the past 24 hours, while 1,334 new infections were reported across Bangladesh, pushing the nationwide death toll linked to measles and its symptoms to 594 since March 15, according to health authorities.

Data released on Tuesday by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) showed that no laboratory-confirmed measles deaths were recorded during the reporting period. However, six children died after exhibiting severe measles symptoms.

Since March 15, a total of 594 children have died from confirmed measles infections or related symptoms. Of them, 90 deaths were laboratory-confirmed cases, while 504 children died after developing suspected measles symptoms.

Over the past 24 hours, health authorities confirmed 42 new measles cases through laboratory testing and identified 1,292 additional suspected cases, bringing the daily total to 1,334.

The cumulative number of laboratory-confirmed measles cases has now reached 9,136, while suspected infections have risen to 73,362 nationwide.

The DGHS said 1,204 children were admitted to hospitals with suspected measles symptoms during the last 24 hours, raising total hospitalizations since mid-March to 59,105.

Meanwhile, 1,090 children were discharged after recovery during the reporting period. Overall, 54,812 patients have recovered and returned home, although thousands remain under treatment.

Read More: Three more children die with measles-like symptoms

Health experts warn that measles is highly contagious and can cause severe complications, particularly among malnourished children and those with weakened immune systems. They have urged parents to ensure timely vaccination and seek immediate medical care if symptoms appear.