Measles Deaths in Bangladesh Rise Sharply to 545

A fast-moving measles epidemic in Bangladesh has left 545 children dead, with the latest daily bulletin recording 17 new fatalities. The Directorate General of Health Services reported that 16 suspected and one confirmed measles death occurred between 24 and 25 May. Nationwide figures since 15 March now stand at 64,940 suspected infections and 8,719 confirmed cases. Dhaka remains the epicenter, accounting for the largest share of both infections and deaths. In the past day alone, health facilities logged 1,127 fresh suspected cases and 97 laboratory positives. More than 51,000 children have required hospital care; roughly 47,600 have since recovered. Medical staff note, however, that late presentation with severe respiratory complications continues to drive mortality that could have been avoided with earlier intervention. UNICEF’s Bangladesh representative stated that the agency had issued repeated written warnings and convened multiple meetings with the interim government about impending vaccine shortfalls. Despite these alerts dating back to 2024, procurement delays persisted, allowing the virus to spread unchecked among under-immunized communities.