Measles Outbreak Causes Severe Financial Hardship for Hundreds of Children in Bangladesh
Summary
Bangladesh’s deadliest measles outbreak in decades has killed hundreds of children and pushed many poor families into debt as medical and travel costs mount. Aid groups say a renewed vaccination drive is under way, but children continue to die from the preventable disease.
Key Points
- At least 844 children with measles died in Bangladesh from March 15 to early August, while more than 112,000 people received hospital treatment.
- The IFRC and Bangladesh Red Crescent Society found that 9 out of 10 affected families took loans to pay medical expenses.
- Families surveyed spent an average of more than $130 on treatment and related costs, even though hospital care is free.
- Bangladesh has launched a large vaccination campaign after a decline in immunization during the 2024 anti-government rebellion left many children vulnerable.
