Sindh Reports 63 Measles, 20 Diphtheria and Five Tetanus Deaths

KARACHI: Sindh has reported dozens of child deaths from measles, diphtheria and tetanus during the first eight months of 2026, according to health department and World Health Organization data.

The report said 63 children died from measles, 20 from diphtheria and five from tetanus between January and August.

A total of 8,032 suspected measles cases were reported in the province between January 4 and August 8, of which 3,123 were confirmed. Health authorities also confirmed 53 measles outbreaks across 15 districts during the period.

The highest number of child deaths was reported in Khairpur, followed by Dadu and Larkana. Karachi East, Sukkur and Thatta were also among the districts reporting significant fatalities.

The data further showed that 55% of children with confirmed measles cases who were nine months or older had not received even a single dose of the measles vaccine.

The report has also raised questions about the need for independent verification of claims regarding vaccination campaign performance by district health authorities.

Health officials and relevant authorities face renewed pressure to strengthen immunisation coverage and improve monitoring to prevent further outbreaks and protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases.