Labonnya Liza ; Dhaka – Six more children have died after being diagnosed with measles or showing related symptoms across the country in the last 24 hours.
Among them, one child was a confirmed measles patient, while the remaining five died with symptoms of the disease.
According to the latest data from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), a total of 1,274 children were reported with measles symptoms from Saturday (May 16) to 8:00 AM today, Sunday (May 17). During this 24-hour window, 243 children tested positive for measles.
With these latest casualties, the total death toll from measles and its symptoms has reached 459 since March 15 of this year.
Among the deceased, 384 children died with measles symptoms, while 75 lost their lives after being laboratory-confirmed as measles positive.
Government records show that since March 15, a staggering 57,846 children have exhibited symptoms of the disease. Out of these patients, 42,092 required hospitalization.
Following treatment, 37,744 children recovered and returned home from various medical facilities.
The DGHS further noted that a total of 7,767 children have officially tested positive for measles during this period.
A division-wise breakdown reveals that the Dhaka division recorded the highest number of deaths with measles symptoms, standing at 153. The Rajshahi division followed as the second hardest-hit region, recording 78 deaths.
Although the health authorities reported a slight stability in the overall situation over the last 24 hours, hospitals—including the Mugda Medical College Hospital—continue to face a steady influx of new patients, leaving doctors and nurses struggling to cope with the mounting pressure.