Dhaka: Families across Bangladesh are being pushed into debt as they struggle to cover the hidden costs of measles treatment, according to a joint assessment by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
According to United News of Bangladesh, nearly nine in 10 measles-affected families (89 per cent) reported borrowing money to pay for treatment, while six in 10 (61 per cent) exhausted their savings, as stated in a media statement. Every family surveyed expressed the need for financial support, with 35 per cent identifying medicines as their highest priority, followed by water, sanitation, and hygiene support (33 per cent) and food assistance (22 per cent).
The assessment revealed that around 4 per cent of families resorted to selling their assets, while 3 per cent relied on donations. Conducted among 2,746 measles-affected families receiving treatment at 12 government medical colleges and district hospitals across Bangladesh, the assessment found that the financial burden extended far beyond medical care.
Seventy-five per cent of the patients were under 4 years of age; 19 per cent were aged between 5 and 17 years, and 6 per cent were over 18 years old. The assessment aimed to identify 2,400 of the most vulnerable families for emergency cash assistance and evaluate the socio-economic impact of the measles surge.
Findings showed that affected families spent an average of BDT 16,000 on treatment and related expenses. Many caregivers also reported losing income or even their jobs after staying in hospitals for extended periods to care for sick children or family members.
One such case is Hazera Khatun, who traveled to Dhaka from Rangpur with her 11-month-old daughter, receiving treatment at Shahid Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital. The family has already spent more than BDT 70,000. “Treatment at the government hospital is free, but many other costs are not covered,” she said. “We spent nearly BDT 20,000 just to reach Dhaka by ambulance. Every day we buy food, pay for medical tests, and cover other daily expenses. I have already borrowed money from my relatives. My husband is working in Saudi Arabia, but he has not received his salary this month, making it even harder for us.”
Among families that reported their occupation, 78 per cent relied on informal employment, earning between BDT 6,000 and BDT 20,000 per month, leaving them particularly vulnerable to income loss during prolonged illness.
Dr. Kabir M. Ashraf Alam, Secretary General of the BDRCS, remarked, “The assessment shows that many families are facing not only a health emergency but also a severe financial strain. Through our emergency response, we are supporting the most vulnerable families with cash assistance while continuing community awareness activities.”
Alberto Bocanegra, Head of Delegation of IFRC in Bangladesh, emphasized the ongoing financial difficulties faced by families during the measles health emergency. He highlighted the necessity of humanitarian assistance and strong social protection systems during public health emergencies.
With support from the IFRC and partners, BDRCS supported the Government of Bangladesh’s nationwide measles vaccination campaign. The organization mobilized over 1,000 Red Crescent volunteers to conduct community awareness activities, support vaccination centers, and promote early healthcare seeking.