Cost of measles treatment cripples families as out-of-pocket expenses soar

Measles can cause deadly complications like pneumonia and severe malnutrition, requiring costly intensive care, an expert says

The escalating measles outbreak in Bangladesh is not only claiming young lives but also pushing families into financial ruin, as the hidden costs of prolonged hospital stays and a lack of free medication in public facilities weigh heavily on parents.

For many, the struggle against the disease -- marked by severe breathing difficulties and high fever -- is compounded by a healthcare system that forces them to purchase almost everything from private pharmacies, a stark reminder of the country’s high out-of-pocket medical expenditure.

While public hospitals technically offer free treatment, parents at the Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute report a different reality.

Sumaiya, identified by a single name, is the mother of nine-month-old Nur, also identified with a single name, who has been at the hospital since early April.

After Nur’s condition deteriorated, requiring intensive care, the family’s expenses spiralled.

"Since arriving, the costs have been relentless," Sumaiya told bdnews24.com.

"Nothing is provided here. Doctors and nurses give us lists, and we have to buy every medicine and test from outside. Even the vitamin A supplements, which are supposed to be government-supplied, must be purchased."

Nur’s father, Nurullah Hasan, estimated they have spent nearly Tk 100,000 in a month.

"Two injections alone cost Tk 4,500 each, and antibiotics were Tk 2,000. My small business is also suffering because I have to be here to fetch supplies," he said.

Since the victims are often very young, mothers usually stay by the bedside while fathers are forced to abandon their economic activities to manage logistics and fundraise.

Identified only as Jewel, a driver from Barishal who brought his son Alif, identified with a single name, to Dhaka after local treatment failed. He has been jobless ever since.

"I spent Tk 20,000 for just one hour in a private hospital before moving here,” he raclled.

“In one week, I’ve spent over Tk 50,000. I’m borrowing from everyone I know, but I don’t know how much longer I can last," he said, adding that he now sleeps on a mosque veranda to save money.

Medical experts explain that the high cost is driven by the nature of the virus itself.

Prof Mahbubul Hoque, director of the Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute, noted that there is no direct cure for measles.

"Measles triggers other physical complications, such as pneumonia and severe malnutrition, which require intensive and expensive supportive care to prevent death," he explained.

It is the treatment of these secondary infections -- often requiring high-end antibiotics and ICU support -- that drains family savings.

Health expert Mushtuq Hossain argued that the current management is reactive rather than strategic.

"A health emergency should be officially declared so that resources can be mobilised more efficiently," he told bdnews24.com.