The deaths of seven children in a week in Chak No 2 KM, Kot Islam area, have triggered alarm and concern among residents.
While locals claim a measles outbreak, health officials say the exact cause of deaths is still under investigation. According to local residents, seven children allegedly died due to measles in Kabirwala’s Chak No 2 KM area.
The deceased children include nine-year-old Ali Zamin, three-year-old Manzar Abbas, three-year-old Zahra Bibi, four-year-old Afshin Bibi, two-year-old Anayya Bibi, and three-year-old Jamshed Ali.
Residents say the measles epidemic has reached dangerous levels, with several more children reportedly affected.
Health department launches response
Following the reports, the Health Department dispatched teams to the affected Kot Islam area. Officials confirmed that medical teams are examining affected children and assessing the situation on the ground.
Deputy Commissioner Maleeha Rashid is overseeing the investigation into the deaths.
Authorities have stressed that measles has not yet been confirmed as the cause of death. The DC stated that the area is flood-affected and that medical reports will determine the actual cause.
Blood samples of sick children have been collected, and further clarity is expected after laboratory results.
Preliminary inquiry finds no confirmed measles cases
A preliminary investigation report has revealed that no child showed clear symptoms of measles. The report noted that the deceased children belonged to the same family and were close relatives.
It also confirmed that some children in the area were suffering from diarrhea.
According to the inquiry, the children were treated by a local paediatrician who diagnosed dehydration and pneumonia. Vaccination cards of three deceased children were also reviewed, showing that they had received measles vaccines.
Continued monitoring and investigation
A medical team, including two pediatricians, conducted a detailed review of the affected union council. Health teams and a “Clinic on Wheels” will remain in the area for several more days to monitor the situation.
Additionally, a provincial director EPI team will carry out a comprehensive investigation.
Residents have urged authorities to take immediate steps to prevent a possible outbreak. They have also called on the Punjab chief minister to take notice of what they described as the tehsil administration’s negligence.
Despite initial findings, uncertainty remains as locals continue to report a measles-like outbreak. Officials maintain that only detailed medical reports will confirm the true cause of the deaths.
