Muyabia Labony ; Dhaka- The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has reported that the measles outbreak in Bangladesh remains at a high level.

However, experts believe the infection rate will likely start decreasing within the next two to three weeks as the recent vaccination campaign takes full effect.

Why Infections Persist Despite Vaccination

Dr. S.M. Ziauddin Haider, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health, spoke at a press conference on Wednesday. He explained that it takes three to four weeks for the body to develop antibodies after receiving the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine.

“Children vaccinated in early April are just now gaining full protection,” Dr. Haider said. “Those exposed to the virus immediately after their shot are still at risk. We expect a downward trend soon.”

He also expressed deep concern over the current situation, calling the high number of child deaths in 2026 a “shameful moment” for the country’s healthcare system.

Pneumonia and Malnutrition: The Silent Killers

Experts identified pneumonia as the primary complication leading to death in both confirmed and suspected measles cases.

Dr. Haider highlighted that malnutrition is a major factor. Malnourished children have weaker immune systems, making them more vulnerable to the virus.

He stressed the need for a national program to improve child nutrition alongside vaccination efforts to prevent such high mortality rates in the future.

New Health Reforms: 1% of GDP for Healthcare

To strengthen the healthcare system, the government plans to increase the health budget to 1% of the GDP in the upcoming fiscal year, up from 0.67%.

Plans include:

• Establishing primary healthcare units in every Union and city ward.

• Recruiting 100,000 new health workers.

Current Situation Update

According to DGHS Director General Prof. Dr. Probhat Chandra Biswas, nearly 18 million children have been vaccinated so far, hitting almost 100% of the target. He urged parents to ensure their children receive the campaign dose even if they have already completed their regular EPI schedule.

The Latest Statistics (Last 24 Hours):

• New Deaths: 8 children

• New Hospital Admissions: 1,489 children

• Total Deaths (since March 15): 432 (69 confirmed, 363 suspected)

• Total Affected: Over 53,000 children showing symptoms.

Dhaka Division has recorded the highest death toll with 143 fatalities, followed by Rajshahi with 78 deaths.