Responding to recent reports regarding the alleged deaths of children due to suspected measles-related complications, Sindh Minister for Health, Dr. AzraFazalPechuho, has directed immediate action to address the situation. Following the reports of the unfortunate passing of 11 children, with 8 from District Mirpurkhas and 3 from District Sanghar, the Sindh government-initiated investigations into each case to determine the causes of death. Clarifying the situation, it was found that 9 out of the 11 reported deaths were unrelated to measles, with only 2 attributed to the disease in District Mirpurkhas.
The two affected children, Nizamuddin and Munza, aged 8 months each, were not eligible for measles vaccination at the time of their passing due to their age. Secretary Health, RehanIqbalBaloch, urged the media to accurately report that only 2 children, not 11, succumbed to measles in April in Mirpurkhas and Sanghar.
He also emphasized the importance of raising awareness about measles vaccination benefits. Acknowledging the media’s role, Secretary Health Baloch stated that the government is committed to providing vaccines to eligible children to prevent measles outbreaks and has intensified efforts to increase herd immunity through public awareness campaigns. In response to the situation, the Sindh Government has established emergency control rooms on provincial and district levels, instructed health workers to enhance surveillance activities, conduct mop-up and case response operations, and intensify public awareness campaigns to curb further spread and promote vaccination benefits.
Parents are urged to prioritize their children’s health by ensuring timely vaccinations and seeking medical assistance promptly when needed.
