Main roads
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More than 100 children have died due to a severe outbreak of measles in Bangladesh
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At least 900 confirmed cases of measles have been reported
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An urgent vaccination campaign has been launched
THURSDAY, April 9, 2026 (HealthDay News) – Officials in Bangladesh are pushing to vaccinate young children as a vaccine. rubella the outbreak quickly spread and became deadly.
More than 100 children have died in less than a month in the South Asian country as cases continue to rise.
Health officials have confirmed more than 900 measles cases among 7,500 suspected infections since March 15. Associated Press Agency reported.
The government is working with it World Health Organization, UNICEF and The Gavi Vaccine Alliance and started an urgent vaccination campaign. It targets children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years in 18 high-risk districts and plans to roll out shootings across the country in the coming weeks.
An official said the sharp rise in cases was alarming.
“This resurgence shows important gaps in immunity, particularly among zero-dose and vaccinated children, while infections are a concern among children under 9 months of age who are not yet eligible for routine vaccines.” Flowers of Ranasaid the representative of UNICEF in Bangladesh Associated Press Agency.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause fever, cough, and rash, and in severe cases, it can lead to complications or death, especially in young children.
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that about 95% of the population should be vaccinated to prevent the spread of the virus.
This disease does not respect international borders. So far, 10 cases of measles have been reported among foreign visitors to the U.S., according to the CDC.
Bangladesh has made significant progress in vaccination over the years, with vaccination coverage increasing from 2% in 1979 to 81.6% today.
But recent disruptions such as political changes and vaccine shortages have slowed progress.
Associated Press Agency reported the Minister of Health Sardar Muhammad Sakhavat Husain said past governments had failed to keep up with vaccine stocks, which contributed to the current outbreak.
Doctors advise parents to seek medical help immediately if their child develops symptoms.
“They should avoid taking medicine from shopkeepers unnecessarily. If a child has a fever, especially a high fever – 101, 102, 3, 4 (Fahrenheit or higher than 38.3 Celsius) – they should not rely on medicines from local shops,” said FA Asma Khan, deputy director of Haji Infections in Bangladesh.
“Instead, they should take the child to the hospital as soon as possible because our medical staff are able to provide proper basic treatment,” he said.
More information
The Mayo Clinic has more information rubella.
SOURCE: Associated Press AgencyApril 6, 2026
What does this mean for you?
Experts say vaccination is the key to preventing the spread of measles, especially among children.
