Dhaka: Health authorities in Bangladesh announced on Sunday that 344 children have died since the outbreak of measles began in the country last March, as infections continue to rise.

According to Emirates News Agency, the Directorate General of Health Services reported that 11 children died during the 24 hours ending on Sunday morning. Measles infection was confirmed in four cases, while the remaining seven children died after showing symptoms associated with the disease.

The directorate further detailed that among the total child deaths recorded since March 15, measles infection was confirmed in 65 children, while the others succumbed after exhibiting symptoms linked to the disease. The health authorities also reported 282 new measles infections among children during the past 24 hours, alongside the hospitalisation of 1,278 children showing symptoms of the disease in the same period.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can be prevented through vaccination. Symptoms include fever, cough, red eyes, and skin rash.