Bangladesh hit by a historic measles epidemic: more than 500 deaths reported

Bangladesh is facing one of the worst measles outbreaks in its recent history. Health officials announced on Saturday that at least 86 children have died this year from confirmed infections, while another 426 suspected deaths have presented symptoms consistent with the disease.

For several weeks, cases have been multiplying rapidly across the country, putting hospitals under immense pressure. Medical infrastructure, already fragile, is struggling to cope with the massive influx of patients, particularly in rural areas and densely populated, disadvantaged urban neighborhoods.

According to data from the Bangladesh Directorate General of Health Services, 62,507 suspected cases of measles were recorded between March 15 and May 23. Of these, 8,494 infections were laboratory confirmed.

Health authorities are particularly concerned about the situation of young children. Children under five are considered the most vulnerable to severe forms of the disease, especially when they are unvaccinated or only partially immunized.

This surge in cases has reignited concerns about vaccination coverage in the country. Public health experts fear that difficulties accessing healthcare, vaccination delays, and overcrowded hospitals will further worsen the situation in the coming weeks.

The World Health Organization is closely monitoring the evolving situation as Bangladeshi authorities attempt to contain the spread of the virus and accelerate nationwide vaccination campaigns.