Daijiworld Media Network - Islamabad

Islamabad, Apr 30: At least 71 children have died due to Measles in Pakistan during the first four months of 2026, raising serious concerns about low vaccination coverage and public health awareness.

The deaths come even as authorities conduct outreach efforts during World Immunisation Week to improve understanding of vaccines and healthcare practices. Despite these initiatives, vaccine hesitancy and limited access in certain regions continue to hinder progress.

According to reports, Pakistan has over one million “zero-dose” children—those who have never received any vaccination. While healthcare access remains a challenge in remote areas, social stigma and misinformation about vaccines are also major barriers.

The country is among the top 10 globally with the highest number of unvaccinated children, highlighting the urgent need for stronger immunisation drives to ensure coverage across all regions.

Data shows that out of the 71 deaths, 40 were reported in Sindh, followed by 12 each in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and four in Balochistan. In total, 4,541 measles cases have been recorded nationwide so far this year, with the highest number reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, followed by Punjab and Sindh.

Health experts note that measles is a highly contagious but preventable disease, and stress that increasing vaccination coverage—particularly through the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine—remains critical to reducing child mortality and preventing further outbreaks.