Karachi Child Vaccination Crisis: Measles and Diphtheria Deaths Raise Alarm
A total of 144 children have died from measles and diphtheria in Karachi during 2026, highlighting the urgent need for Karachi Child Vaccination. Hospital data shows both diseases continue to threaten young lives despite being preventable through routine immunisation. Health experts urge parents to complete every recommended vaccine on time.
Four major hospitals reported 1,915 measles cases and 125 related deaths this year. In addition, diphtheria caused 19 child deaths. Indus Hospital treated around 850 measles patients and recorded 17 deaths. It also admitted eight diphtheria patients, including one fatality. Meanwhile, the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital managed 575 measles cases and 81 diphtheria cases. The hospital reported 54 deaths, including 36 from measles and 18 from diphtheria.
Hospitals Urge Early Treatment
The Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology treated 484 measles cases and recorded 65 deaths. Although complete figures from the National Institute of Child Health were unavailable, hospital sources confirmed at least seven recent measles deaths. Doctors explained that many children arrived in critical condition after delayed treatment elsewhere. As a result, serious complications such as pneumonia and brain inflammation increased the risk of death or lifelong disability.
Vaccination Remains the Best Protection
Pakistan Paediatric Association representative Dr. Khalid Shafi said many children receive birth vaccines but miss later doses. According to him, about 20 to 25 percent of children fail to complete vaccinations on schedule. Under Pakistan’s immunisation programme, children receive measles vaccines at nine and 15 months. Experts believe 95 percent coverage can control outbreaks effectively. Furthermore, Sindh EPI Project Director Dr. Raj Kumar said measles cases dropped 35 percent compared with last year. He added that ongoing vaccination campaigns and 970 newly recruited vaccinators will strengthen immunisation services. However, experts stressed that parents, healthcare workers, and communities must work together to protect every child through timely vaccination.
