Corresponding Author:
Mohammad Mahmudul Hasan (
hasandmc50@yahoo.com)
Abstract Body
Background: Measles continues to be a significant contributor to childhood morbidity and mortality , particularly through secondary complications such as pneumonia.
Objective: To determine the socio-demographic profile, parental educational status, family characteristics, nutritional background, and exposure-related factors associated with measles-associated pneumonia among hospitalized children.
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 41 children admitted with confirmed measles and clinical evidence of pneumonia. Information regarding residence, family size, parental occupation and income, parental education, breastfeeding practices, immunization history , measles exposure history , and possible source of transmission was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed descriptively .
Results: The majority of affected children were from rural areas and most families belonged to lower-middle and low socioeconomic groups. Fathers were commonly employed as farmers, small businessmen, transport workers, or low-income service holders, while mothers were predominantly housewives. Family size generally ranged from 4–8 members. Most parents had educational attainment up to primary or secondary level, with some having no institutional education. Community exposure was identified as the predominant source of measles transmission, whereas a smaller proportion reported family exposure. Several caregivers reported positive contact history , including exposure in healthcare settings, suggesting possible nosocomial transmission. These findings indicate that measlesassociated pneumonia occurred more frequently among children from rural settings with lower socioeconomic status, limited parental education, and increased exposure opportunities.
Conclusion: Measles-associated pneumonia among hospitalized children appears strongly associated with rural residence, lower socioeconomic conditions, limited parental educational attainment, and community-based transmission patterns.