The Directorate General of Health Services has cancelled all types of leave for physicians, officials, and healthcare workers under its jurisdiction to tackle a surge in measles-related pneumonia cases.

According to an office order issued by the DGHS yesterday (2 April), both earned and casual leaves for all levels of healthcare staff have been suspended and/or cancelled with immediate effect.

Signed by Professor Dr Jalal Uddin Mohammad Rumi, director (administration) of the DGHS, the order stated that the decision was made with the approval of the appropriate authorities to address the public health situation.

The measure aims to ensure uninterrupted medical services and facilitate the administration of measles vaccines during this emergency period.

The directive applies to all healthcare professionals, officers, and staff working within the DGHS and its subordinate health institutions across the country.

The administration has been instructed to implement the order immediately to maintain a constant healthcare presence during the crisis.

As of yesterday, the DGHS had reported a total of 13 confirmed deaths from measles infections so far this year, while 27 children had died with suspected measles symptoms.