Mymensingh starts mass measles vaccination as death toll rises to 12

The immunisation campaign is being conducted across 70 centres within the city

A measles vaccination drive has commenced in Mymensingh city, targeting 58,668 children amid a spike in infections and fatalities.

Mymensingh City Corporation (MCC) Administrator Md Rukunozzaman officially inaugurated the initiative at the Nagar Bhaban on Sunday morning.

Speaking after the launch, Rukunozzaman emphasised that the campaign is designed to be hassle-free.

"Volunteers will bring the vaccine to people's doorsteps, with a particular focus on underprivileged communities," he said.

MCC Health Officer HK Debnath confirmed that the immunisation drive is being conducted across 70 centres within the city.

Beyond the urban centre, the campaign has also been extended to Mymensingh Sadar, Trishal, and Phulpur Upazilas, aiming to cover an additional 165,750 children.

The urgency of the campaign comes as Mymensingh Medical College Hospital (MMCH) reported two more deaths of children with measles symptoms in the last 24 hours.

This brings the total death toll at the hospital from suspected measles to 12.

According to hospital records, 26 new patients were admitted during the same period, bringing the total number of children currently undergoing treatment to 73.

So far, MMCH has treated 397 children for the illness, with 312 being discharged after recovery.

Parents began gathering at vaccination centres early Sunday morning, expressing relief at the timely intervention.

"We were terrified by the rate at which measles is spreading," said Sharmin Akter, a parent at one of the centres.

"It feels good to finally get my child vaccinated."