The ongoing measles outbreak could dampen Bakrid 2026 celebrations in Bangladesh as public health experts and physicians have warned people to limit travel with children, avoid unnecessary gatherings and follow all the health precautions.
They believe that the situation could worsen during the Eid al-Adha 2026, when people generally look forward to long-distance travel and visit their relatives’ houses.
Across remote areas in Bangladesh, treatment for measles remains limited, which raises concerns if children fall ill while travelling. Also, there are possibilities that the transmission risk could heighten during the summer season. Due to this, familities with young children are being advised to restrict travelling during Eid, Dhaka Tribune reported.
Measles outbreak toll rises to 545
The current situation in the South Asian nation is worsening, with 17 more deaths due to measles and related symptoms reported in 24-hour period, as per the data shared by the Integrated Control Room of the Directorate General of Health Services.
Among them, 16 were classified as suspected measles deaths and the remaining one was confirmed. As many as 1,127 new suspected cases were identified during the same period and confirmed cases increased to 97.
So far, Bangladesh has recorded 545 deaths, including 87 confirmed and 458 suspected measles deaths, since March 15.
Bangladeshis advised to alert
Public health and vaccination expert Dr A Bari asked parents to remain highly vigilant during the Eid holidays and isolate children immediately whenever fever or rashes appear. Those infected should be kept in well-ventilated rooms with adequate light.
Further, the expert urged locals to avoid non-essential movement and wear masks, ensure continued breastfeeding for infants and maintain hygiene.
Dr Benzir Ahmed highlighted that children under the age of five remain at higher risk. Also, those suffering from cold, fever or cough must remain away from crowded areas as they face major risk of measles infection.
Dr Ahmed noted that medical care is accessible in urban areas, but there can be shortage of doctors in rural regions, especially during Eid holidays.
“In this situation, it is best for people to stay where they are. Unnecessary movement should be limited as much as possible,” Dhaka Tribune quoted Dr FA Asma Khanom, Director, Infectious Diseases Hospital, as saying.
Dhaka empties amid Bakrid 2026 travel rush
Local media reports have stated that millions of people have already left the capital city of Dhaka to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha 2026.
At major bus terminals, railway stations and river ports, people witnessed large queues due to overcrowding, amid allegations of overcharging.