Deaths from measles and measles-like symptoms near 200 in Sylhet, concern grows

The number of deaths from measles and from measles-like symptoms in Sylhet is nearing 200. After the figure surfaced in local media reports, concern has spread among the general public across the district. Questions are also being raised about the prevention system, as so many lives are being lost to a vaccine-preventable disease.

The reported death toll combines two categories — those who died infected with measles, and those who died with measles-like symptoms. In other words, measles is taken to have been confirmed in one portion of the deceased, while the deaths of the rest are being matched with measles symptoms. Combined, the total figure has now reached close to 200.

Measles is a highly contagious disease. Although it begins with fever and a rash on the body, in children and in people with weak immune systems it can move towards severe complications. News of deaths accumulating in this way in Sylhet is therefore being seen by those concerned as a warning signal for public health.

The figure nearing 200 — this single fact is enough to grasp the gravity of the situation, local people believe. This is not one or two isolated deaths; what steps are being taken to stop this steadily accumulating trail of deaths is now the main question of the people of the area.

In this situation, those concerned are stressing bringing the infected under treatment quickly and taking patients to hospital without delay if symptoms appear. At the same time, demands are rising to strengthen preventive surveillance in the areas from which more reports of deaths and infections are coming.

The news is of special concern for the people of Sylhet Division, because a full picture is yet to emerge on whether the number is still rising or where new infections are being found. Local reports keep returning to the growing death toll.

When a disease preventable through vaccination causes such loss of life, questions naturally arise about the reach of the immunisation programme as well. Conscious quarters are demanding an inquiry into whether any child or any area has been left outside the coverage of vaccination.

Which way the situation goes will depend on the steps taken now. After the news of the death toll nearing 200 became public, people across Sylhet will be watching the response of the relevant authorities and the information that comes next.