Bangladesh Measles Outbreak Linked to Nearly 900 Suspected Deaths

DHAKA: Nearly 900 suspected measles-related deaths have been reported in Bangladesh since an outbreak began in March, with children accounting for most infections, according to the report.
Disruptions to routine childhood immunisation during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent political instability left many children without full protection. The report put vaccination coverage at about 87 per cent, below the approximately 95 per cent level needed to prevent sustained measles transmission.
The government launched an emergency measles-rubella vaccination campaign targeting children aged six months to five years. The drive began in priority areas in early April before expanding nationwide, with support from the World Health Organization, UNICEF and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
Authorities activated district rapid-response teams, expanded hospital isolation facilities and provided vitamin A to children with suspected or confirmed measles. Community outreach efforts also encouraged parents to bring their children for vaccination.
The report warned that gaps in routine immunisation and continued vaccine hesitancy could leave the country vulnerable to another wave of infections.