A worrying measles outbreak in Sindh has claimed the lives of at least 40 children so far in 2026, raising serious concerns among health authorities and experts about gaps in routine immunisation across the province.
According to officials from the Sindh Health Department, more than 1,100 cases of measles have been reported in the province during the first four months of the year, making Sindh the most affected region in the country. Nationwide, the death toll has reached over 70 children, with thousands of confirmed infections.
Health experts say the resurgence of measles — a highly contagious but preventable disease — is largely due to low vaccination coverage. A significant number of affected children were either unvaccinated or had not completed their routine immunisation schedule. The presence of “zero-dose” children, those who have never received any vaccine, has further worsened the situation.
Doctors warn that measles can lead to severe complications, especially in young children. These include pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), and severe dehydration, which can prove fatal if not treated in time. Many of the reported deaths occurred in children under the age of five.
The outbreak has been particularly severe in parts of northern Sindh, where access to healthcare facilities remains limited and awareness about vaccination is low. Delayed hospital visits and lack of timely medical care have also contributed to the rising death toll.
Officials have linked the current crisis to disruptions in routine immunisation during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with vaccine hesitancy in certain communities. Misinformation and lack of awareness continue to discourage some parents from vaccinating their children.
In response, health authorities have intensified efforts to control the outbreak. Vaccination campaigns are being planned in high-risk districts, and measles immunisation is being integrated with ongoing polio drives to reach more children. Public awareness campaigns are also being launched to educate parents about the importance of timely vaccination.
Pakistan has faced repeated measles outbreaks in recent years. In 2025 alone, more than 140 children died due to the disease, highlighting persistent weaknesses in the immunisation system.
Health experts stress that measles is entirely preventable with two doses of vaccine and urge parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated.
The current outbreak serves as a stark reminder that without strong and consistent immunisation coverage, preventable diseases like measles can continue to claim young lives.
