Measles claims two more lives in Mohmand

The political agent has directed the health department to immediately launch a vaccination drive.

SHABQADAR: Two more children died of measles in Mohmand Agency, while another child was admitted to a hospital in Baro Khel area of Ghallanai on Friday.

A jirga discussed the increasing number of cases with Political Agent Dr Ambar Ali, who directed the health department to launch a vaccination drive across the agency immediately. He also issued directives to health officials for creating awareness among parents regarding immunisation.

A World Health Organisation (WHO) official, who is not authorised to speak to the media, said limited health facilities in the area were resulting in the spread of diseases such as measles. “Poor health facilities are primarily affecting women and children,” he said.

Mohmand Agency Surgeon Dr Muhammad Daud confirmed the new case, adding that all cases have been reported to the health department. “Cases of pneumonia and asthma are on the rise because of winter,” he added.



In July 2012, six children died after contracting measles in Ambar, while three others died in Haleemzai area of the agency last week.



The health department is regularly vaccinating children, however, lack of health education, poverty, poor hygiene and polluted water are preventing the desired results. The epidemic has also spread to Shabqadar.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 19^th, 2013.