CM blames negligence for measles outbreak
File photo of a child being vaccinated. PHOTO: REUTERS
“Innocent lives have been lost due to the negligence and incompetence of health department,” said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif while taking notice of the death of children due to measles in Pattoki.
On the direction of CM Maryam Nawaz, Provincial Ministers Khawaja Salman Rafique and Khawaja Imran Nazir visited the Kot Haq Nawaz Basic Health Unit. They obtained information from the parents about the measles afflicted children and ordered stern action against those found negligent.
On the direction of the CM, the number of ‘Clinics on Wheels’ and field hospitals in the measles affected areas has been increased and a special ward has also been established for the treatment of children suffering from measles in the Tehsil headquarters hospital.
The chief minister sought an immediate report from the health secretary about the causes behind increasing number of measles cases.
She directed the officials of the health department to provide the best treatment facilities to the children suffering from measles.
She said that precious innocent lives have been lost owing to the negligence and inefficiency of the health department.
She asserted that stern punishment would be handed down after fixing responsibility for the negligence.
She called for daily monitoring of infectious diseases, including measles.
She warned negligence with regard to the treatment would not be tolerated.
CM Maryam Nawaz directed the officials concerned to ensure the availability of vaccines of all diseases, including measles, in all the health centres and government hospitals across Punjab.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 30th, 2024.