Bangladesh launches emergency vaccination campaign after measles outbreak kills nearly 100

Sunday 05 April 2026 - 13:45

Bangladesh has launched an emergency vaccination campaign following a surge in measles cases that has claimed nearly 100 lives in recent weeks, according to health authorities. The outbreak has raised concerns over public health, particularly among young children.

Over the past three weeks, more than 6,400 suspected cases have been reported across the country, with dozens of confirmed infections. Officials say the number of affected children and the mortality rate are significantly higher than in previous years, marking one of the most severe outbreaks in decades.

Health authorities have identified several contributing factors behind the crisis, including a shortage of vaccines, declining immunization coverage, and widespread misinformation about vaccination. Malnutrition and reduced breastfeeding rates have also been cited as factors increasing children’s vulnerability to the disease.

In response, the government has targeted the most affected areas with urgent immunization efforts. Officials stress that strengthening vaccination programs is essential to preventing further loss of life.

According to the World Health Organization, measles remains one of the most contagious diseases worldwide, causing tens of thousands of deaths each year, mostly among unvaccinated children under five.