A dramatic measles outbreak is overwhelming the healthcare system and exposing critical gaps in vaccination coverage nationwide.
📍 Bangladesh, Dhaka Division, Chattogram Division
As of May 4, 2026, Bangladesh is grappling with a catastrophic measles surge, fueled by a staggering 41,793 suspected cases since March 15th, with 5,567 confirmed. The situation is drastically different from previous years, with daily case numbers exceeding 1,300 – a massive jump from the annual average of just 125 recorded in 2025. This surge, compounded by 28,842 hospital admissions and 253 suspected deaths, represents a significant threat to public health and is placing immense strain on the country’s healthcare resources. Dhaka Division bears the brunt of the outbreak with 18,975 cases and 34 confirmed deaths, while substantial burdens are also being reported from Rajshahi and Chattogram divisions, highlighting the need for a nationwide response.
The root cause of this crisis lies in persistently low vaccination coverage. Despite a national target of 99.25% for the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine, coverage rates remain alarmingly low, currently at just 60.57%. EPI data reveals that only 86.1% of children have received the first dose and 80.7% the second, leaving a large proportion unvaccinated and susceptible. This accumulation of unvaccinated individuals, particularly across successive birth cohorts, has created a vulnerable population susceptible to widespread transmission. Several districts, including Brahmanbaria, Manikganj, Noakhali, Chattogram District, Faridpur, Habiganj, and Joypurhat, are particularly struggling to reach vaccination targets, with coverage rates below 50% in some areas.
Responding to this alarming situation, the Government has extended the MR vaccination campaign until May 20th, 2026, and is requesting support from organizations like the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) to scale up volunteer efforts in low-performing districts. Successfully addressing this crisis will require a multi-pronged approach, including strengthened community mobilization, expanded outreach to hard-to-reach locations, and improved coordination at the local level. Achieving herd immunity – requiring at least 95% vaccination – is now paramount to curbing the spread and protecting vulnerable populations.
Original Source: Link
MeaslesOutbreak Bangladesh VaccineEquity PublicHealth EPI DiseaseControl ImmunizationCampaign HealthCrisis