KHANEWAL:
Reports of seven child deaths within a week in a village near Khanewal have raised alarm among residents, with initial fears of a measles outbreak later challenged by health officials.
According to local sources, the deaths occurred in Chak 2KM of Kot Islam, where residents claimed that a suspected outbreak of measles had led to the death of several young children.
The deceased were identified as Ali Zamin, Manzar Abbas, Zahra Bibi, Afshan Bibi, Inaya Bibi and Jamshed Ali, while reports indicated that other children in the area were also suffering from similar symptoms.
The situation created panic among the residents, who feared the spread of a contagious disease and urged the health department to take immediate action. Locals warned that the situation could worsen if timely action was not taken.
Following media reports, the district administration responded promptly.
Deputy Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Health Dr. Asif Mahmood sent a medical team to the affected village to assess the situation.
According to initial findings from the health team, the dead children aged between one and 10 years did not show confirmed symptoms of measles.
Officials said preliminary investigations and early test results suggested the deaths may have been caused by gastroenteritis or another illness rather than measles.
The health authorities also stated that no visible signs of measles were found during physical examinations of the affected children, including skin inspections.
However, they added that final conclusions would be drawn only after receiving detailed laboratory reports.
Dr. Asif Mahmood said further investigations were underway and further test results would establish the exact cause of death.
He also pointed to poor hygiene conditions in the affected households, which may have contributed to the spread of disease.
Meanwhile, several children in the area are still reported to be unwell, causing continued concern among residents. Health authorities have assured that monitoring will continue and the necessary measures will be taken once the final diagnosis is confirmed.
