Global NewsHigh Priority (8/10)Bangladesh

Measles Outbreak Kills At Least 15 in Bangladesh

A measles outbreak in Bangladesh has caused 15 confirmed deaths, prompting the government to launch an emergency immunization programme to contain the disease.

Key Points

  • 15 deaths confirmed through laboratory testing of 33 samples
  • WHO supported the laboratory testing efforts
  • Unvaccinated children or those with incomplete vaccination face greatest risk
  • Malnourished children particularly vulnerable to severe complications

Full Details

A measles outbreak in Bangladesh has led to 15 confirmed deaths, officials announced Wednesday, as the government prepares to launch an emergency immunization programme. Health Services Division Secretary Kamruzzaman Chowdhury confirmed the deaths after laboratory testing of 33 samples conducted with support from the World Health Organization. The Directorate General of Health Services stated that unvaccinated children or those who have not completed the two-dose measles schedule face the greatest risk. Malnourished children are particularly prone to severe complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis. Measles requires 95% population vaccination to prevent its spread, one of the highest thresholds for any infectious disease.

Why It Matters

The outbreak underscores the critical importance of completing the full two-dose measles vaccination schedule and maintaining robust immunization programmes, especially for vulnerable populations.

Sourcenbcnews.com

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