Country: Bangladesh Source: UN Children's Fund Please refer to the attached file. Situation in Numbers 9,883 suspected cases as of 7 April 2026 (DGHS). 81 per cent of cases are children under five (WHO). 128 suspected measles-related deaths as of 7 April 2026 (DGHS). 56 out 64 districts are impacted (DGHS). Highlights: Bangladesh is experiencing a sharp increase in measles transmission. As of 7 April 2026, 9,883 suspected cases and 1,398 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported nationwide, with at least 128 suspected deaths (21 confirmed). Young children are disproportionally affected, with children under five accounting for 81 per cent of cases, including 34 per cent among infants under nine months, who are not yet eligible for routine immunization and remain especially vulnerable. Most cases are among unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children, with 72 per cent zero-dose and 16 per cent partially vaccinated, reflecting significant immunity gaps. National Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine stocks are depleted, constraining both response efforts and routine immunization. UNICEF rapid assessments indicate that many health facilities are already under severe strain, with overcrowding and limited triage and isolation capacity, alongside gaps in critical medical supplies and referral systems, increasing transmission and risks for vulnerable children. On 5 April 2026 UNICEF and partners supported the Government of Bangladesh to launch of an emergency measles-rubella campaign in 18 high-burden districts. Parallel efforts are underway to support Vitamin A supplementation, strengthen health facilities, procure critical medical supplies and reinforce community engagement. UNICEF requires US$2.4 million to contain measles and restore immunization and Vitamin A coverage amid rising pressure in overstretched health facilities.
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