DHAKA: Bangladesh is facing one of its most severe measles outbreaks in decades, with at least 227 child deaths reported since March and nearly 35,000 suspected cases recorded nationwide, according to official data released on Wednesday.
The outbreak has heavily impacted remote regions, particularly Kurukpata in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, an area inhabited by Indigenous communities near the border with Myanmar. Limited healthcare access and low vaccination coverage have contributed to the rapid spread of the disease in these المناطق.
Local health officials reported that dozens of children in the area have required treatment, with authorities describing the situation as unusually severe. Difficult terrain and poor transport infrastructure have made it challenging for residents—many of whom are low-income farmers—to access medical facilities.
Community leaders have called for urgent government intervention, including awareness campaigns and expanded vaccination efforts to reach underserved populations. In some cases, families must travel long distances on foot before reaching transport options to access healthcare services.
Measles, identified by the World Health Organization as one of the most contagious infectious diseases, spreads through respiratory droplets such as coughs and sneezes. It primarily affects children and can lead to serious complications, including brain inflammation and severe respiratory illness.
Since mid-March, most suspected cases have been reported among children aged between six months and five years.
Health authorities, supported by the UNICEF and other partners, are continuing vaccination drives across the country. Officials say that approximately 9.5 million children have been immunised against measles and rubella as part of ongoing efforts to contain the outbreak.