Bangladesh faces world's worst measles outbreak, 1,000 dead in six months

Bangladesh is experiencing the world's worst measles outbreak, with around 1,000 suspected and confirmed deaths reported since March and over 166,000 suspected cases recorded. The outbreak follows disruption to routine immunization and vaccine supply during 2024-2025 political turmoil, leaving children vulnerable, particularly infants under nine months. Under-fives accounted for about 80% of early cases, and hospitals are overwhelmed, with one Dhaka facility treating over 2,350 patients despite a 1,350 capacity. An emergency vaccination campaign has reached over 19.7 million children, but experts say stronger routine immunization is needed. The health system is also strained by a concurrent dengue outbreak, with over 45,000 hospitalizations this year.