Deadly outbreak: A thousand children died from measles in Bangladesh

More than 1,000 children have died in a deadly measles outbreak in Bangladesh. Around 1,000 new cases are reported daily, and Bangladesh leads the world in the number of cases this year. UNICEF blames the interim government for delaying vaccine orders, leading to a severe shortage. A former senior Health Ministry official denied any shortage.

More than 1,000 children have died in a deadly measles outbreak in Bangladesh, with cases continuing to rise rapidly despite a widespread vaccination campaign. WHO data reveals that Bangladesh has recorded more measles cases this year than any other country in the world, with over 194,000 cases since March. Around 1,000 new suspected cases are reported daily, even though nearly 19.8 million children have been vaccinated as part of the campaign. UNICEF accused the interim government of Muhammad Yunus of delaying vaccine orders last year, leading to a severe shortage. However, a former senior Health Ministry official denied any vaccine shortage. The outbreak, which began in March this year, was described by UNICEF as a "perfect storm" of several factors, including high population density and delays in routine vaccinations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Malnutrition among children in the country increases the risk of severe complications and death. Hospitals in Bangladesh are overwhelmed, with some operating at double capacity. Dr. Mushtaq Hussain, a public health expert, said the initial vaccination campaign was insufficient. WHO called the campaign a success but acknowledged that some target children were not vaccinated.