A measles outbreak in Bangladesh has killed over 500 children since March 15, marking the country's deadliest surge in decades.
Hospitals in Dhaka are overwhelmed, setting up dedicated wards but facing ICU bed shortages. Thirteen children died in the last 24 hours alone.
The government launched a mass vaccination drive, reaching 18 million children, but officials say full impact will take months.
UNICEF cites immunization gaps worsened by a 2024 uprising that toppled the autocratic government.
Measles is highly contagious with no specific treatment. Complications include brain swelling and severe respiratory issues. Most victims are malnourished children from low-income families who missed routine vaccinations.
A pediatrician at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital noted that many children arrived critically ill with respiratory distress and infections.
UNICEF's Rana Flowers urged boosting vaccination programs and increasing funding for health facilities and surveillance.