Bangladesh measles outbreak kills 1,000 children as vaccination gaps persist

Bangladesh is experiencing its worst measles outbreak on record, with health officials confirming 1,002 child deaths and 187,484 infections since March, making it the world's largest ongoing outbreak. The crisis stems from immunization gaps during 2024-2025 political turmoil following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's ouster, with procurement policy changes creating vaccine shortages. An emergency drive vaccinated 18 million children but missed roughly four million, preventing herd immunity. Children under five account for over 80 percent of early cases. Hospitals are simultaneously strained by a dengue surge that set records for admissions and deaths on Tuesday.