Over 100 dead in Bangladesh measles outbreak. Is India at risk?

According to a health bulletin issued by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), 11 people died from measles and measles-like symptoms in the past 24 hours alone. Since March 15, the total number of suspected measles-related deaths has risen to 128.

However, the DGHS has officially confirmed 21 deaths as directly linked to measles, alongside 1,398 confirmed cases so far, media reports said.

Systemic gaps blamed for crisis

Data and expert analysis suggest that the outbreak may be linked to systemic failures under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain told parliament that the absence of measles-rubella vaccination campaigns over the past five and a half years, along with poor vaccine stock management, left thousands of children vulnerable.

Emergency vaccination drive launched

In response, the Bangladesh government, with support from UNICEF, World Health Organization, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, has launched an emergency measles-rubella vaccination campaign.

The initiative aims to cover over 1.2 million children aged between 6 months and 5 years across 30 upazilas in 18 high-risk districts, with plans for nationwide expansion.

UNICEF Representative Rana Flowers expressed concern over the sharp rise in cases, particularly among under-vaccinated children and infants below nine months—who are not yet eligible for routine immunisation.

What is measles?

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through the air and via contaminated surfaces. According to the Mayo Clinic, most patients recover within 10 days, but complications can be severe, especially in children.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent infection.

Can it spread to India?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that measles can easily cross borders, particularly in regions with low vaccination coverage.

India, however, remains relatively well-protected. Government data shows measles-rubella vaccination coverage at 93.7% for the first dose and 92.2% for the second dose. In 2024, the country recorded a 73% drop in measles cases and a 17% decline in rubella cases compared to the previous year.

According to Sanjeev Bagai, India is “fairly well placed,” though global travel and migration could still pose risks.

“I don’t think there is any immediate cause for concern, but surveillance and timely action are crucial,” he said.