Punjab has reported 1,695 suspected measles cases in the first four weeks of this year, according to a recent report by the DG Health Services. The provincial health authorities have stepped up surveillance and monitoring systems following the outbreak.
This is not the first time Punjab has experienced an uptick in measles cases. In 2024, there were 23,680 suspected cases with 16 deaths recorded, while last year saw 19,913 reported cases resulting in four fatalities. The health authorities have been proactive in addressing this issue.
A report filed by the DG Health Services to the Lahore High Court highlighted the recent surge in measles cases and noted that the province has issued 40 outbreak alerts across Punjab since January 26, 2026.
In response to these figures, a series of meetings have taken place under the leadership of the Chief Secretary and the Health Minister. These gatherings aimed at improving monitoring and surveillance systems at both district and hospital levels. The DG Health Services also emphasized the need for continued improvement in vaccination efforts.
Last year’s measles campaign from November 17 to 29, 2025, successfully administered free vaccines to children aged six months to five years across Punjab. The health services have vowed to implement similar measures to curb this year’s outbreak and ensure that preventive vaccinations reach all communities effectively.