Rajeev Sharma :- Bangladesh continues to grapple with a worsening measles outbreak, with two more children succumbing to measles-like symptoms during the past 24 hours, pushing the overall death toll to 585 since mid-March. Health authorities have classified the latest fatalities as suspected measles-related deaths, reflecting the growing concern over the spread of the disease across the country.
The outbreak has also shown no signs of slowing down, as more than 1,300 new suspected cases were reported within a single day. The cumulative number of suspected infections has now crossed 70,000, while confirmed cases have also continued to rise, placing additional pressure on the country’s healthcare system.
Officials said tens of thousands of patients have been admitted to hospitals since the outbreak began, with a significant number recovering after treatment. However, the steady emergence of fresh cases remains a major challenge for health authorities.
Meanwhile, UNICEF has renewed concerns over vaccine shortages, stating that it had repeatedly alerted Bangladesh’s health authorities about the risk of a large-scale outbreak. The UN agency said it communicated its concerns through multiple letters and meetings, warning that inadequate vaccine supplies could trigger a public health emergency.
UNICEF representatives further noted that several discussions were held with government officials to highlight the urgency of strengthening immunisation programmes. The agency has also pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation into the outbreak, offering to share relevant information and documentation with authorities.
Public health experts have urged the government to intensify vaccination drives and strengthen preventive measures, warning that the situation could deteriorate further if immediate action is not taken.
