Deadly measles surge in Bangladesh

Bangladesh launched an emergency measles‑rubella vaccination campaign after a fast‑spreading outbreak has killed more than 100 children and infected thousands. (reliefweb.int) The campaign began on April 5, 2026, and initially targets more than 1.2 million children aged 6 months to 5 years across 30 upazilas in 18 high‑risk districts. (who.int) Health ministry and United Nations data show 9,883 suspected measles cases and at least 128 suspected measles‑related deaths as of April 7, with 1,398 laboratory‑confirmed infections reported. (reliefweb.int) UNICEF and World Health Organization analysis says 72 percent of recent cases were among zero‑dose children and 16 percent were partially vaccinated, while 81 percent of cases are in children under five. (reliefweb.int) The situation report says national measles‑rubella vaccine stocks are depleted, hospitals are overcrowded, and UNICEF has issued a US$2.4 million appeal to support response and restore routine immunization. (reliefweb.int) Public‑health reporters and clinics note a planned follow‑up measles drive in 2024 was postponed amid political unrest, leaving gaps in immunity that officials link to the current surge. (scmp.com) Global funding changes have compounded risks: reports in 2025 said major donors scaled back support for the Gavi vaccine alliance, and WHO, UNICEF and partners have warned funding shortfalls threaten routine immunization. (france24.com) Rana Flowers, UNICEF representative in Bangladesh, said the outbreak “highlights critical immunity gaps” and called for rapid vaccine delivery to protect infants too young for routine shots. (who.int) UN agencies say the emergency campaign will expand to four city corporations from April 12 and roll out nationwide from May 3, and they add that, with coordinated action, the resurgence can be contained. (who.int)