Punjab Reports Rising Measles Cases, 1,695 in Four Weeks

Punjab has reported 1,695 suspected measles cases during the first four weeks of 2026, according to a report submitted to the Lahore High Court. The report was filed by the DG Health Services Punjab in a case concerning deaths from measles. Health authorities say 330 of these cases have been confirmed through laboratory testing so far this year. Additionally, 40 outbreak alerts have been issued across the province to control further spread.

Comparing previous years, Punjab recorded 23,680 suspected measles cases in 2024, with 6,747 confirmed and 16 deaths. In 2025, 19,913 suspected cases were reported, 4,000 were confirmed, and four deaths occurred. Authorities noted that although cases have declined from 2024, vigilance remains essential to prevent fatalities and larger outbreaks.

The DG Health Services highlighted that monitoring and surveillance systems have been strengthened in response to the current outbreak. Several meetings have been convened under the Chief Secretary and Health Minister’s leadership. Instructions were issued to improve monitoring at district and hospital levels, ensuring timely detection of suspected cases.

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Last year, a measles vaccination campaign ran from November 17 to 29, 2025. The campaign provided free vaccines to children aged six months to five years across Punjab. Officials said such campaigns are crucial for preventing outbreaks and protecting children from serious complications.

Health authorities have urged parents to vaccinate their children promptly and report any suspected measles symptoms immediately. Continued public cooperation, along with strengthened surveillance, is vital to controlling the outbreak and safeguarding public health.