Measles outbreak may worsen further due to Eid movement: Experts
Mass movement across the country could drive a post-Eid spike in cases
At least 528 children have died from measles and suspected measles in Bangladesh since 15 March, while more than 72,000 children have been infected, according to health directorate data. In the 24 hours till 8am yesterday (24 May) alone, 16 children died from suspected measles.
Public health experts have warned that measles cases could surge again after Eid due to large-scale population movement from cities, including Dhaka. They have urged parents to avoid unnecessary crowds with children and to postpone travel if any symptoms appear.
Health specialists caution that Eid-related gatherings – such as visits to shopping malls, cattle markets, use of public transport, family visits and recreational trips – could accelerate transmission.
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Measles is highly contagious, with one infected person capable of spreading it to 12-18 others. The virus can remain active in the air or indoor spaces for several hours, increasing risks in crowded settings, they added.
Unvaccinated, malnourished children vulnerable
Public health expert Dr M Mushtuq Husain said Eid travel and mass movement across the country could drive a post-festival spike in cases, with malnourished children particularly vulnerable.
He advised that children who are unwell or undernourished should not travel, warning that exposure could worsen their condition and spread infection to others.
"Parents must remain cautious," he said, adding that even mildly ill children should avoid travel during Eid.
Public health expert Dr M H Choudhury Lelin also warned that infected individuals may spread measles unknowingly, as the disease becomes contagious about four days before the rash appears. He advised against travelling if any family member has fever, cold or a runny nose.
According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), 1,306 patients with measles-like symptoms were admitted to hospitals in the last 24 hours, of whom 128 were confirmed as measles cases through laboratory testing.
So far this year, at least 86 children have died from confirmed measles infections, while another 442 deaths involved children showing measles-like symptoms.
Mask use, social distancing, hygiene advised
Amid the outbreak, parents have been urged to avoid exposing children to unnecessary crowds, said Professor Dr Mirza Md Ziaul Islam, director of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute.
He advised mask use, social distancing and strict hygiene during Eid travel, and recommended immediate medical attention for any child with fever or related symptoms. He also stressed isolating sick children from others.
Health Minister Sardar Md Sahawat Hossain has similarly urged caution during Eid travel and public gatherings, warning against taking children to crowded places or relatives' homes if they are at risk or showing symptoms.
He emphasised that infected children must be kept separate from healthy ones to prevent further spread.
Doctors said large Eid gatherings, crowded transport and mass travel increase transmission risks, particularly among unvaccinated children. Those who have received the measles vaccine face significantly lower risk of infection.
