1 hr ago

Bangladesh Faces Severe Measles Epidemic As Cases Top 166,000

Bangladesh is experiencing its worst measles outbreak in decades.

More than 166,000 suspected cases have been recorded since the start of the year.

Nearly 1,000 deaths have been reported among suspected measles cases.

The disease is spreading in all 64 districts of the country.

Young children, especially those under five, are most at risk.

Some babies are too young to receive routine vaccines.

Missed vaccinations and vaccine shortages left many children unprotected.

The government and international health groups are now vaccinating about 18 million children.

Hospitals in the hardest-hit areas are struggling to care for all patients.

Key facts

Suspected cases: More than 166,000 since the beginning of the year
Reported deaths: Nearly 1,000 deaths from suspected measles
Geographic spread: All 64 districts across Bangladesh’s eight divisions
Most affected group: Children under five, who account for roughly 80% of cases
Infant infections: Infants under nine months account for nearly one-third of infections
Emergency campaign: Vaccinations are targeting approximately 18 million children
Immunity benchmark: Global standards require at least 95% coverage with two vaccine doses to achieve herd immunity

wionews.com · 1 hr ago