Karachi, April 14: Recent reports from Sindh’s health department reveal a troubling surge in HIV infections within the province. Over the past three months, the number of infected individuals has significantly increased, with a concerning number of cases involving children under the age of 14.
According to prominent Pakistani media outlet ARY Digital, health officials have reported hundreds of new HIV cases, highlighting a dangerous trend. In the first quarter of this year alone, 894 individuals tested positive for the virus, including 332 men, 204 women, and 29 transgender individuals. These figures underscore the alarming rise in infections.
Particularly worrisome is the rise in cases among children. This year, 329 children under 14 have been identified as HIV positive, comprising 188 boys and 141 girls.
The increase in infections has been rapid, with January reporting 294 cases, February 324, and March 276. This data indicates a troubling upward trend across the province.
Health officials have warned that the situation could mirror the 2019 outbreak in Larkana’s Rato Dero area, where the reuse of contaminated syringes led to the infection of 900 people, including 754 children.
Experts attribute the rising HIV cases in Sindh primarily to unsafe syringe practices and contaminated blood transfusions. These unsafe methods pose serious risks, especially in areas where healthcare standards and monitoring are inadequate.
In one hospital alone, nearly 100 HIV cases have been reported, highlighting the severity of the local situation. Hospital officials caution that without stringent control measures and increased public awareness, the number of infections could continue to rise.
ARY also noted discussions in Parliament regarding the HIV/AIDS crisis. During a question session on March 30, the National Assembly was informed that there are 84,421 registered HIV/AIDS patients across the country.
Federal Minister for Health, Syed Mustafa Kamal, presented written information during the National Assembly session, revealing that most patients are from Pakistan’s most densely populated provinces—Punjab and Sindh.
Tackling this growing health crisis will require urgent action and comprehensive public health strategies.
Leave a Comment