SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Measles cases have been reported in different areas of Lower South Waziristan, raising concerns about the spread of the infectious disease among children.

The district headquarters (DHQ) hospital in Wana has registered 13 measles cases during the last two days, according to Jan Mohammad, the medical superintendent of the hospital.

He said seven cases were reported a day earlier, while six more cases were reported on Tuesday.

The health department said that most children in different areas of Wana had already been vaccinated against measles. It added that teams had been formed in various areas to help prevent the spread of the disease and strengthen preventive measures.

However, locals expressed concern over shortage of facilities at Wana hospital.

They said that children affected by measles were facing difficulties in accessing adequate treatment because of a shortage of facilities at the hospital.

They urged relevant authorities to improve healthcare services, ensure availability of essential medical facilities at the hospital and provide timely treatment to children suffering from measles.

They asked the health authorities to strengthen vaccination efforts and improve treatment facilities at Wana hospital to protect children from the disease.

Five days earlier, twin siblings died of measles in Santoi area of Shakai tehsil in Lower South Waziristan, according to information provided by the health department.

Published in Dawn, October 21st, 2026