Measles death toll rises to 317, 6 children die in 24 hours

Bangladesh has recorded the deaths of six more children from measles and related symptoms in the last 24 hours, bringing the overall death toll to 317.

Of the new fatalities, two were lab-confirmed measles cases, while the remaining four exhibited measles-like symptoms, according to the health directorate's daily bulletin released on Tuesday.

Since the outbreak gained momentum on Mar 15, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has confirmed 54 deaths specifically from measles.

Additionally, 263 individuals have died with suspected symptoms.

The capital remains the epicentre of the crisis, with Dhaka recording the highest number of symptom-related fatalities at 127. The Rajshahi Division follows with 71 deaths.

In the 24 hours until 8am on Tuesday, 259 new lab-confirmed measles cases were identified, while 1,186 individuals sought medical attention with suspected symptoms, and 989 patients were admitted to hospitals across the country.

Dhaka continues to face the heaviest burden on its healthcare infrastructure, with 417 new patients admitted with symptoms in the last 24 hours alone.

In contrast, Rangpur reported the lowest admission rate with only five new hospitalisations.

Since Mar 15, a total of 42,979 suspected cases have been recorded nationwide.

Out of these, 5,726 have been officially confirmed as measles through testing.