3 die with measles symptoms, 980 suspected cases reported in 24 hours

Bangladesh has reported three additional deaths linked to measles symptoms and 980 new suspected measles cases in the past 24 hours till Tuesday morning, according to the latest bulletin from the Directorate General of Health Services.

Health officials said that between 8am on Monday and 8am on Tuesday, 54 cases were laboratory-confirmed, although no confirmed measles-related deaths were recorded during the same reporting period. The newly reported fatalities are associated with suspected measles symptoms, the DGHS added.

Since 15 March, the country has recorded a total of 9,833 confirmed measles cases. During the same period, suspected cases have risen sharply to 81,084, reflecting ongoing transmission across different regions.

The bulletin further stated that 92 people have died from confirmed measles infections since the outbreak began, while deaths among suspected cases have reached 539. Health authorities also reported that 62,292 patients have recovered so far, indicating a significant number of recoveries alongside continued new infections.

Public health experts say the persistent rise in suspected cases highlights the need for stronger immunisation coverage, rapid diagnosis, and improved outbreak control measures. Authorities have continued surveillance activities and monitoring through hospitals and field-level health workers to track new infections and respond to emerging clusters.

The DGHS continues to coordinate nationwide reporting to assess the spread of the disease and update response strategies as needed.