At least three children from Cumilla have died of measles while undergoing treatment in Dhaka, according to officials from the district Civil Surgeon’s Office, as concerns grow over a recent increase in infections.
Civil Surgeon Dr Ali Noor Mohammad Bashir confirmed the matter on Monday, March 30, stating that one of the children was from Cumilla City Corporation and the other two were from Titas upazila.
Further details about the victims are yet to be disclosed.
According to official data, at least 21 more children are currently receiving treatment in hospitals across Cumilla and Dhaka. 69 samples were collected over the past month, with 18 testing positive for measles. Health officials say the number of infections has been rising steadily.
“We are on high alert. Our teams are responding quickly by visiting affected households, administering measles vaccines, and advising isolation for infected patients,” said Dr. Bashir.
At Cumilla Medical College Hospital, a significant increase in cases has been observed.
Dr Mia Monjur Ahmed, head of the pediatric department, said that 25 children were admitted with measles between March 18 and March 30.
Of them, eight have recovered and been discharged, while two were referred to Dhaka for advanced treatment. Currently, 15 children remain under close observation.
The hospital has opened a dedicated ward for measles patients to ensure proper treatment and prevent the spread of the disease, he added.
Jahid Patowary/MHK