|| Zakir Hossin, Pirojpur: Pirojpur district is witnessing a sharp rise in measles infections, mirroring a trend seen in several parts of the country. Hospitals are facing mounting pressure as new patients are admitted daily, stretching the capacity of healthcare facilities.At Pirojpur Sadar Hospital, the child ward is severely overcrowded. Although the ward has only 14 beds, around 70 children are currently admitted. Among them are several children infected with measles and one confirmed dengue patient.During a hospital visit, multiple patients were seen sharing single beds, while others received treatment on the floor due to space shortages. Anxiety is growing among parents and relatives as the patient load continues to rise.Six-month-old Kaushik was found lying on a hospital bed with visible measles symptoms. His mother, Moumita Begum, said, “My son has been admitted for the last five days after contracting measles. He is slightly better now, but doctors said he will need to stay for a few more days.”Elias Hossain, who traveled from Nazirpur Upazila, said, “My four-and-a-half-year-old son was first admitted to Nazirpur Upazila Hospital. When his condition did not improve, we brought him to Pirojpur Sadar Hospital today.”Another guardian, Mukta Begum, said, “My seven-month-old son Yasin has been admitted for three days. His condition has not improved much yet.”According to the district health department, the number of suspected measles patients in Pirojpur has reached 337. In the past 24 hours alone, 12 new suspected cases were identified, and laboratory tests have confirmed measles in 20 patients.So far, 211 children with measles and related complications have been admitted to hospitals in the district. Of these, 192 have recovered and been discharged, while others remain under treatment.Pirojpur Civil Surgeon Dr. Md. Matiur Rahman said, “The number of patients has exceeded the hospital’s capacity. However, no patient is being denied treatment. Despite limited facilities, doctors and healthcare workers are doing their best to ensure proper medical care for everyone.”Health experts warn that measles weakens the immune system and increases vulnerability to other infections. The disease can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, respiratory and neurological disorders, diarrhea, deafness, blindness, and encephalitis, which can be life-threatening.