Karachi, April 14: A disturbing report from Sindh, Pakistan, highlights a significant surge in HIV infections, as reported by local media citing the Sindh Health Department. In just three months, the number of HIV-positive individuals has risen alarmingly, with a notable increase among children under 14 years old.
According to the well-known Pakistani media outlet ARY Digital, health officials have revealed that HIV cases in Sindh are escalating at a dangerous rate. Hundreds of new infections have been reported in this short period, with a substantial number of children among them.
Health authorities have confirmed that HIV infections are on the rise across Sindh. In the first quarter of the year, a total of 894 infections were recorded, including 332 men, 204 women, and 29 transgender individuals. These figures reflect the alarming increase in infection rates.
Most concerning is the rise in cases among children. This year, 329 children under the age of 14 have tested positive for the virus, with hospital data indicating 188 boys and 141 girls affected.
The first quarter of the year saw a rapid increase in HIV cases: 294 in January, 324 in February, and 276 in March, indicating a troubling upward trend throughout the province.
Health officials have warned that the situation could mirror the 2019 outbreak in the small area of Ratodero, where the reuse of contaminated syringes led to 900 infections, including 754 children.
According to Sama TV, health experts attribute the rising number of HIV infections in Sindh to unsafe syringe practices and contaminated blood transfusions. These unsafe methods pose serious risks, especially in areas with weak healthcare standards and oversight.
In one hospital in Sindh, nearly 100 HIV cases have been reported, underscoring the severity of the local situation. Hospital officials have cautioned that without strict control measures and increased public awareness, the number of infections could continue to rise.
ARY highlighted a debate in Parliament, noting that on March 30, during a question session, it was revealed that there are 84,421 registered HIV/AIDS patients across the country.
Federal Minister for Health, Syed Mustafa Kamal, presented written information regarding HIV/AIDS patients during the National Assembly session. In his formal response, the minister stated that 84,421 individuals living with this disease are registered under the ‘National AIDS Control Program.’
According to the minister, most of these patients are from Pakistan’s most densely populated provinces, Punjab and Sindh.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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