At least 11 more children have died across the country in the past 24 hours as of 8am Tuesday - one from confirmed measles and 10 from suspected measles or related symptoms, according to health authorities.
Since March 15, a total of 21 deaths from measles have been reported, while 128 children have died with suspected measles symptoms.
Of the deaths reported in the last 24 hours, nine occurred in the Dhaka division, while the remaining two were recorded in Rajshahi and Sylhet divisions, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) measles report released on Tuesday.
DGHS data show that since March 15, 21 children have died from confirmed measles, while 128 deaths have been linked to suspected cases. In the past 24 hours alone, 641 children with suspected measles were admitted to hospitals, and 224 cases were confirmed.
Additionally, 1,236 patients with suspected measles sought hospital care in the last 24 hours. Over the past 24 days, a total of 9,883 patients have sought treatment, of whom 6,883 were admitted and 4,635 have since recovered.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain announced that a measles vaccination campaign will begin on April 12 in Dhaka North and South, Mymensingh, and Barishal city corporations, before expanding nationwide from May 3.
He said the campaign will continue uninterrupted to protect public health and ensure a healthier future generation. The minister noted that the current government is dealing with the consequences of vaccination failures by previous administrations, but added that 96 percent of the first-day target was achieved when the drive began on April 5.
Vaccines are being procured through UNICEF and Gavi, he said. To address staff shortages at DNCC Hospital in Mohakhali, authorities are increasing manpower and strengthening isolation beds, ICU facilities, and ventilator support nationwide.
