Measles infections are rising across several regions of Bangladesh, with health authorities warning of growing pressure on hospitals and increasing risks for infants, particularly those below the routine vaccination age.
In Rajshahi Division, the outbreak has put significant pressure on Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH), the largest government healthcare facility in the region.
In the past 24 hours alone, 50 children with measles symptoms were admitted to the hospital.
Professor Dr Shahida Yasmin, head of the Pediatrics Department at RMCH, said 280 children are currently undergoing treatment with suspected measles, of whom 28 cases have been laboratory-confirmed.
She noted that around 65% of affected children are under six months old, raising serious concern as they are not yet eligible for routine vaccination.
Hospital Director Brigadier General AKM Masud Ul Alam said the influx of critically ill patients from different districts has increased, stretching the hospital’s limited ICU capacity and manpower.
According to the Rajshahi Divisional Health Directorate, at least 500 children across eight districts have been infected so far. Of 424 samples collected, 137 have tested positive.
Measles cases are also rising in Khulna Division, with health authorities reporting 78 suspected cases, of which 26 have been confirmed.
Kushtia has reported the highest number of suspected cases, with 50 children currently receiving treatment at Kushtia Medical College Hospital. Other districts reporting cases include Jashore (6), Khulna (3), and two each in Magura, Jhenaidah, and Satkhira.
No cases have been reported so far in Bagerhat, Chuadanga, Meherpur or Narail.
Health data show that infection rates are highest among infants aged 6 to 9 months (26.9%), followed by children aged 1 to 4 years (23.1%).
District-wise infection rates per million population are highest in Kushtia (14.6), followed by Chuadanga (14.5), Jashore (11.6), Khulna district (7.1), Narail (5.7), Magura (4.3), Jhenaidah (2.2), and Satkhira (2.0). The overall infection rate for Khulna Division stands at 6.7 per million.
Divisional Health Director Professor Mujibur Rahman said hospitals are prepared to handle the situation but warned that the situation could worsen if cases continue to rise.
In Gopalganj, the death of a 10-month-old girl with measles-like symptoms has prompted heightened vigilance, although no confirmed cases have been reported in the district so far.
The child, Tuba Islam Toha, developed fever and breathing complications before being taken to Dhaka for treatment, where she died on March 27.
Civil Surgeon Dr Abu Sayeed Mohammad Faruk said an investigation committee has been formed to examine the incident. A team will visit the affected area to collect information, identify suspected cases and recommend preventive measures.
Authorities have also held a district-level meeting with health officials and decided to strengthen hospital preparedness, including setting up intensive care units across facilities.
Officials said several children are currently hospitalized with fever, but none has been confirmed as measles.
Health officials say the rising number of infections across divisions reflects a broader trend, with increasing vulnerability among younger children.
Experts warn that continued spread could further strain healthcare systems, particularly in regions with limited critical care capacity.
Authorities have urged vigilance and early treatment, as measles remains highly contagious and can lead to severe complications if not managed promptly.
Dhaka Tribune’s correspondents in Rajshahi, Khulna, Gopalganj, Magura, Narail and Satkhira contributed to this report