Bangladesh Measles Outbreak: Bangladesh is grappling with a severe measles outbreak, now considered the deadliest globally in 2026. As of May 23, the death toll has exceeded 500, with 13 children succumbing to the disease within the last 24 hours, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
The epidemic, which began on March 15, has resulted in 512 deaths, with 86 confirmed cases and 426 suspected measles-related fatalities. In the past 24 hours alone, 2,132 new infections were reported, highlighting the rapid spread of the virus.
Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that the number of confirmed measles cases in Bangladesh has surpassed 10,000. This places Bangladesh at the forefront of measles-related deaths this year, surpassing Sudan and Pakistan.
The outbreak has overwhelmed hospitals, particularly in Dhaka Division, which has recorded 214 deaths and 35,513 infections. Other affected regions include Rajshahi, Chittagong, Barishal, Sylhet, Mymensingh, Khulna, and Rangpur Divisions.
Historical data reveals that Bangladesh last faced a significant measles outbreak in 2005, with over 25,000 cases. The current crisis has reignited concerns about vaccination coverage, which had improved significantly between 2021 and 2025.
Health experts warn that unless immediate action is taken to restore vaccination coverage and strengthen emergency response efforts, the situation could deteriorate further. The WHO has emphasized the global resurgence of measles due to declining vaccination rates.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, May 25, 2026
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