The Ministry of Primary and Mass Education of Bangladesh has issued an urgent directive to ensure proper implementation of the government’s primary school feeding program. The order, dated May 13 and announced on Saturday, warns that legal and departmental action will be taken if any distribution of substandard or spoiled food is proven. The ministry cited reports of rotten bread, spoiled eggs, and poor-quality bananas being supplied to schools, posing health risks to children and undermining the program’s goals.

The directive instructs head teachers to verify the quality and quantity of food before acceptance and distribution. It emphasizes that all food items must meet prescribed standards, be stored properly, and be distributed on time. Specific guidelines were issued for bread, eggs, bananas, UHT milk, and fortified biscuits, including checks for freshness, packaging integrity, production and expiry dates, and net weight.

The ministry further stated that no low-quality or defective food should be accepted under any circumstances. Any negligence or irregularity will lead to disciplinary and legal measures, and suppliers must be reported immediately to higher authorities.

A nine-month-old child named Safuat died on Saturday morning while undergoing treatment for measles-like symptoms at the 250-bed Sherpur District Hospital. The child, from Madarpur village in Jhenaigati upazila, had been suffering from fever, breathing difficulties, and rashes for three days before being admitted around 8 a.m. He died at approximately 11:30 a.m. despite receiving medical care.

According to hospital and family sources, the child’s condition deteriorated rapidly. Doctors at the hospital confirmed that he was admitted in critical condition with fever, respiratory distress, and measles symptoms. Assistant registrar Dr. Arafurunnahar said the medical team provided maximum care and advised transfer to Mymensingh Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment, but the family could not proceed due to financial hardship.

Hospital authorities reported that 60 patients are currently admitted with measles-like symptoms, and three have been confirmed as measles cases. Measures have been taken to manage the situation, according to hospital sources.

Patients across Iran are facing severe difficulties obtaining essential medicines due to shortages and rising prices, according to the state news agency IRNA. The report said shortages have affected drugs such as Clidinium-C, certain antibiotics, Ascentra, and Estradiol Valerate. Health officials, however, continue to deny claims of a major crisis in the pharmaceutical market.

IRNA reported that a three-sheet pack of 2 mg Estradiol Valerate, used in infertility and other treatments, officially costs about 840,000 rials, or roughly 47 cents, but is being sold on the black market for between 5 million and 17 million rials, equivalent to $2.80 to $9.40. A woman undergoing IVF treatment in Tehran said she searched pharmacies for over seven hours to find only three sheets of the drug, criticizing the government for promoting childbirth while basic IVF medicines remain scarce.

The report attributed the disruptions in production and pricing to foreign exchange fluctuations, international sanctions, raw material import issues, energy costs, liquidity shortages, and funding gaps in the insurance sector. Some drug prices were raised before insurance systems updated their rates, forcing patients to pay more out of pocket.

Bangladesh is facing a severe measles outbreak that has claimed the lives of nearly five hundred children. Amid this crisis, President Md. Shahabuddin Chuppu traveled to London for a follow-up medical check-up, accompanied by his family, physicians, and staff. His earlier cardiac bypass surgery was performed in Singapore in October 2023, and all medical records remain there. The president’s decision to undergo follow-up treatment in London instead of Singapore has drawn criticism, with observers labeling the trip as unnecessary and extravagant.

The article highlights a broader crisis in Bangladesh’s healthcare system, marked by inequality and lack of trust among the elite. While millions of citizens rely on under-resourced hospitals without insurance, wealthy and powerful individuals routinely seek treatment abroad. The piece argues that this disparity reflects a deeper governance failure, where corruption, poor regulation, and lack of accountability have crippled both public and private healthcare sectors.

The author calls for stronger health policies, increased budget allocation, and legal accountability for medical negligence to restore public confidence and ensure equitable healthcare access for all citizens.

Bangladesh Health Minister Sardar Md. Shakhawat Hossain stated that measles patients are receiving all internationally recognized forms of treatment. Speaking to reporters on Friday at the DNCC Covid-19 Hospital in Mohakhali, Dhaka, he said the government is making maximum efforts despite multiple challenges. He noted that 98 percent vaccination coverage has been achieved and that the government managed to secure measles vaccines in a short time. If the situation worsens, hospital capacity will be expanded.

The minister said that Gavi, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization have acknowledged Bangladesh’s rapid vaccine procurement for a large population. He added that doctors are working tirelessly and that the government started with no ventilators or vaccines left by the previous administration. Following the Prime Minister’s directive, ventilators have now been supplied nationwide, and ten new ICU units will open in ten districts next Tuesday.

He further mentioned that malnutrition is a major factor behind measles vulnerability. Vitamin A campaigns have resumed, with large supplies expected from UNICEF by June 10 to improve child nutrition and immunity.

Bangladesh is facing a severe measles outbreak, with doctors reporting that 99 percent of patients recover fully if diagnosed and treated promptly. The information was shared at a press conference on May 16 organized by the Bangladesh Lung Foundation and the Chest and Heart Association of Bangladesh. Experts warned that complications such as pneumonia and respiratory failure significantly increase the risk of death, but early treatment can reduce fatalities.

Pulmonologist Dr. Ziaul Haque stated that measles, a highly contagious viral disease, had been largely controlled through vaccination programs. However, disruptions in immunization over the past two years led to 54,419 suspected cases between March and May 14, including 70 confirmed measles deaths and 369 deaths from measles-like symptoms. Doctors emphasized maintaining vaccination drives, setting up “fever corners” in health centers, following WHO treatment guidelines, and raising public awareness.

Pediatricians added that malnutrition and delayed hospital visits worsen complications, particularly pneumonia, which can affect multiple organs. They urged parents to seek immediate medical care for children showing respiratory distress or high fever.

Children in Dhaka spend an average of nearly five hours a day using digital screens such as mobile phones, televisions, and computers, according to a study by the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B). The research found that more than one-third of children suffer from eye problems and 80 percent frequently experience headaches. Conducted between 2022 and 2024 among 420 children aged six to fourteen from six schools, the study was published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR) Human Factors.

The findings show that 83 percent of children exceed the internationally recommended two-hour daily screen limit, averaging 4.6 hours per day. Those using screens for more than two hours sleep only 7.3 hours on average, below the healthy range of 8–10 hours. About 14 percent are overweight or obese, with higher rates among heavy screen users. Researchers warned that excessive screen time disrupts sleep, reduces physical activity, and increases risks of obesity, eye strain, and mental health issues.

ICDDR,B experts urged parents to set limits, encourage outdoor play, and promote balanced digital habits at home and school to protect children’s physical and mental well-being.

Intern doctors at Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Medical College Hospital in Bogura began a work stoppage on Wednesday night following a clash with relatives of a deceased child patient. The incident occurred after the death of a child named Nihan, whose family accused doctors of negligence. The confrontation escalated into a physical altercation, prompting the hospital’s director, Brigadier General Mohammad Mohsin, to intervene and restore calm. Despite his assurances, the intern doctors announced a strike and suspended emergency services.

On Thursday, the interns held a human chain protest in front of the hospital’s emergency and casualty departments. They presented four demands: ensuring doctors’ safety, installing CCTV surveillance in all wards, conducting a fair investigation and punishing those responsible, and guaranteeing administrative support for a safe working environment. The hospital authorities have formed a three-member committee to investigate the incident.

The protesting interns warned of a larger movement if their safety concerns and the Health Service and Protection Act 2024 are not effectively implemented.

UNICEF has warned that more than 770,000 children in Lebanon are at risk of developing long-term mental health problems due to ongoing conflict and widespread displacement. The organization stated that these children are enduring intense psychological distress as a result of violence, loss, and forced displacement across the country.

Eduard Beigbeder, UNICEF’s Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, said that without urgent assistance, the psychological wounds could last for years, affecting not only the children’s well-being but also their future and the country’s stability. He added that children who should be returning to classrooms and playing with friends are instead being killed or injured.

The statement underscores the growing humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, where conflict continues to endanger children’s lives and mental health, calling for immediate international and local support to address the situation.

At least 14 out of 15 private diagnostic centers in Jhikargacha upazila of Jashore are operating without valid documentation, according to findings presented at a recent upazila law and order committee meeting. The report revealed that patients have suffered from incorrect and improper treatments at these unlicensed facilities, with allegations that around six mothers died during childbirth over the past year. Local Member of Parliament Dr. Mosleh Uddin Farid and other committee members expressed dissatisfaction over the situation.

The expired or unrenewed centers include Janani Pathology and Diagnostic Center, SS Diagnostic Center and Clinic, Fatema Clinic and Diagnostic Center, Jhikargacha Private Clinic and Diagnostic Center, SK Clinic and Diagnostic Center, Majeda Diagnostic Center, and several others. Upazila Sanitary Inspector Abdul Matin said the centers have been instructed to renew their licenses promptly. Upazila Health Officer Dr. Abdul Rashid stated that his office cannot take legal action but has requested the upazila administration to intervene.

Jashore Civil Surgeon Dr. Masud Rana confirmed that all centers were notified to renew their licenses within one month, warning that legal measures will follow if they fail to comply.

Local authorities in Bordeaux, France, have ordered more than 1,700 passengers and crew aboard the cruise ship 'Ambition' to remain on board following concerns of a possible norovirus outbreak. The vessel arrived at the port on Tuesday, with French health officials reporting that at least 50 people showed symptoms of the virus. Operator Ambassador Cruise Line confirmed that 48 passengers and one crew member were suffering from gastrointestinal illness during the 14-night voyage.

The cruise began its journey from Belfast on Friday and Liverpool on Saturday, with illness cases reportedly increasing after the Liverpool boarding. A 92-year-old passenger died on Sunday, though the company stated the individual showed no signs of gastrointestinal illness, and the cause of death awaits a coroner’s report. In response, the operator has implemented enhanced sanitation measures, including frequent disinfection, modified dining services, and hygiene awareness campaigns.

A medical team and sanitation consultants have been dispatched by Bordeaux authorities to collect samples for testing at Bordeaux University Hospital. Results are expected within six hours, and passengers will remain confined until investigations conclude and clearance is granted.

At least 50 to 60 students of Muladuli High School in Ishwardi upazila, Pabna, fell ill on Wednesday afternoon after a suspected toxic gas or chemical exposure in a classroom. The incident occurred during class hours in the girls’ section, prompting teachers to rush the affected students to Ishwardi Upazila Health Complex. Doctors confirmed that all students are now out of danger and receiving treatment.

According to school sources, the incident began when a sixth-grade student entered the classroom with a small container that later broke on the floor, releasing a strong odor. Soon after, many students experienced headaches, breathing difficulties, weakness, vomiting, and convulsions. Fire service officials suggested that a pungent or toxic gas might have caused the reaction, though investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause.

Local administration, health officials, and fire service teams are jointly investigating the incident. Lawmaker Professor Abu Taleb Mondal visited the hospital and instructed authorities to prioritize the students’ recovery and uncover the cause of the poisoning.

Authorities in Uzirpur upazila of Barishal have decided to prohibit the sale of harmful steroids without a doctor’s prescription ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha and the seasonal livestock markets. The decision was taken during a monthly development and law and order meeting held at the upazila parishad conference room on Wednesday morning, chaired by Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Ali Suja.

The meeting stated that the restriction aims to prevent misuse of steroids and other drugs used for fattening sacrificial animals, which pose health risks to humans. Officials warned that legal action would be taken against anyone violating the directive. The administration also announced strict measures to ensure that only genuine farmers can supply paddy under the government’s Boro rice procurement program, warning against political or illegal interference.

Officials from various departments, law enforcement, and local representatives attended the meeting, where participants also called for collective efforts to make Uzirpur free from drugs, terrorism, and extortion.

A report by Dr. Sheikh Sadiul Islam, published on May 13, 2026, highlights that prolonged mobile phone use is causing increased pressure on the neck, a condition known as 'text neck syndrome'. The article notes that around 65–70 percent of people experience neck pain at some point in their lives, and 20–30 percent of adults suffer from it annually. The problem is growing rapidly among young people due to extended use of mobile phones and computers.

The report explains that when the head tilts forward, the effective weight on the neck increases significantly—from about 12 kilograms at a 15-degree tilt to as much as 25–27 kilograms at 60 degrees. This added strain can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, headaches, nerve compression, and cervical spine degeneration. Many young patients are now seeking medical help for such conditions.

To prevent these issues, the article advises maintaining proper posture, holding the phone at eye level, taking regular breaks, exercising the neck and shoulders, and avoiding high pillows during sleep.

Three people have died in Sundarganj upazila of Gaibandha after being bitten by a stray dog, reportedly due to a shortage of rabies vaccines at government hospitals. The victims were among 13 people, including two children and two women, who were seriously injured in separate attacks on April 22 in Konchibari and Chaparhati unions. Families alleged that delays in obtaining vaccines from private pharmacies allowed the virus to spread, leading to the deaths.

The deceased were identified as Nanda Rani, Phulu Mia, and mason Ratneshwar Kumar, who died between May 6 and May 8. Another victim, Afroza Begum, has been sent to Dhaka in critical condition, while nine others remain under treatment. Local residents said fear has gripped the area due to the lack of vaccines in public hospitals. Union council member Tajrul Islam stated that timely treatment could have prevented the deaths.

Upazila health officer Dibakar Basak said funds have been allocated to purchase 30 rabies vaccines this month and advised immediate wound cleaning and vaccination after animal bites.