A measles outbreak has spread across Bangladesh, with at least 21 child deaths reported in March amid rising infections in multiple districts. Health officials say the outbreak is affecting areas including Dhaka, Mymensingh, Rajshahi, Chattogram, Jashore, Pabna and Natore, with additional cases reported from several other regions.

 

According to the Directorate General of Health Services, measles is present nationwide, though case numbers are significantly higher in certain districts. Hospitals in the capital are struggling to cope with the surge.

 

Health experts warn that gaps in vaccination coverage are a key driver of the outbreak. Bangladesh has not conducted a nationwide measles-rubella campaign since 2020, and shortages in vaccine supply and field-level health workers have left many children unprotected.

 

Measles is highly contagious, with one infected person capable of transmitting the virus to 15-18 others. Doctors report that even children under nine months-below the vaccination age-are being infected.