LAHORE: The measles epidemic in Punjab continues to worsen, with two more children succumbing to the disease within the last 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 24.
One of the deceased children was from Lahore, while the other was from Faisalabad, according to health department officials. The latest fatalities underscore the increasing public health crisis in the province.
In the past day alone, 227 suspected cases of measles were reported, increasing the total number of patients to 3,210. Hospitals across the province are witnessing a surge in admissions, with 38 children from Sheikhupura, 34 from Faisalabad, 29 from Lahore, and 25 from Gujranwala currently being treated in government facilities.
Medical experts say that children under the age of five are particularly vulnerable to the disease. They are urging parents to ensure their children complete the recommended immunization schedule to prevent further spread.
Punjab health minister says the total number of measles cases reported so far this year is unprecedented. He acknowledges that the situation is especially dire in Gujranwala and announces plans to appoint doctors to Basic Health Units (BHUs) across Punjab within two weeks to better manage the outbreak.