The number of confirmed and suspected measles cases is steadily rising in Barguna. So far, 84 children have been hospitalised with suspected measles and have received treatment. Among them, 18 cases have been confirmed as measles infections, while samples from 62 patients have been sent to Dhaka for testing.

Dr Md Rezwanur Alam, superintendent of Barguna 250-bed General Hospital, confirmed the information on Tuesday (March 31) evening.

According to hospital sources, eight more patients suspected of having measles were admitted in the last 24 hours. Several of those currently undergoing treatment are under close observation. Special measures have been taken at Barguna General Hospital to tackle the situation. A total of 30 beds have been allocated separately for infected patients.

Additionally, two beds each have been prepared at the upazila health complexes in Amtali, Patharghata, and Bamna, along with one bed in Betagi. However, no measles cases have yet been identified outside the sadar upazila.

Rezwanur Alam said that the primary step in treating measles patients is establishing isolation units. As soon as the outbreak began, two separate wards with 15 beds each were opened at the hospital. Considering the current situation, an additional 15 beds have been added.

He added that, due to the lack of measles testing facilities in Barishal, collected samples are being sent to Dhaka. So far, samples from 62 patients have been dispatched. However, no deaths have been reported among patients undergoing treatment at the hospital.

He also said that the first symptom of measles is fever. Noting that one infected patient can spread the disease to at least 18 others, the hospital superintendent advised that any child showing symptoms such as fever, cold, and cough should be taken to the hospital immediately. Treatment should then be ensured either at home or through hospital admission, following a doctor’s advice.