8-month-old with measles symptoms dies in Cumilla

Doctors say the child died a few hours after being admitted to the hospital in critical condition

Another eight-month-old child with measles symptoms has died in Cumilla.

Dr Piyas Ahmed, medical officer of the District Civil Surgeon's Office, said the child died at the "Measles Isolation Unit" of Cumilla Medical College Hospital (CuMCH) on Wednesday afternoon.

The deceased, Samia Akhter, was the daughter of Shahadat Hossain of Yusufpur village in Debidwar Upazila.

At least ten people have died in Cumilla from measles or measles-like symptoms since January. Of these, one person died of a confirmed measles case and nine people died with measles symptoms, said Dr Piyas.

Meah Monjur Ahmed, head of the paediatric department at CuMCh said: "The child had been suffering from fever for five to six days. She was admitted to the hospital in critical condition around 12:30pm on Wednesday. She later died while undergoing treatment around 4:15pm."

He said, "We are repeatedly requesting that children, even if they show minor symptoms, be brought to the doctor immediately. For any delay, they often face unfortunate situations, even if they reach the hospital at the last minute."

The doctor advised that if any symptoms including fever, shortness of breath, weakness occur, parents should immediately seek help from the nearest Upazila Health Complex or a doctor.