Islamabad, April 20: Despite experiencing nearly ten HIV outbreaks over the last decade, Pakistan continues to struggle with the crisis. A recent report indicates that between November 2024 and October 2025, 331 children in Taunsa tested positive for HIV.
These cases emerged even after the government claimed to have taken action at the Taunsa Tehsil Headquarters Hospital, where the medical superintendent was removed and a new official appointed. However, an undercover report by the BBC revealed ongoing negligence at the facility. It showed that the same syringes were being reused on children, injections were administered through clothing, and nurses were handling medical waste without gloves. Many parents confirmed that the syringes used on their children had been reused.
According to a report by Pakistan’s leading newspaper, ‘Dawn’, more than half of the cases were attributed to ‘contaminated needles’. A former special assistant expressed concern that this issue is not limited to just one hospital but is prevalent across the country. Unsafe health practices, such as the reuse of disposable syringes, untested blood transfusions, unsafe sexual practices, and the use of unclean equipment, are contributing to the rapid rise of bloodborne diseases.
The report noted that after such incidents, there is usually a temporary outcry, investigations are initiated, and the government takes some steps. However, as time passes, the issue fades from public attention, only to resurface with new outbreaks.
Pakistan has witnessed several significant HIV outbreaks in the past. In 2019, over 1,000 cases were reported in Larkana, with up to 90% of those affected being children. Additionally, there were rising cases in Jacobabad and Shikarpur in 2023, and in Taunsa, Mirpurkhas, and Dera Ghazi Khan in 2024. Cases have also been recorded in Hyderabad, Shaheed Benazirabad, Naushero Feroze, and Karachi.
Independent journalist Zofeen T. Ibrahim from Karachi reported that despite these serious lapses, there is a lack of public outrage and no substantial action against those responsible. She highlighted that a lack of public awareness is a significant issue, as impoverished and less informed patients often do not realize that even a standard injection can lead to lifelong illnesses for them or their children.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. 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.
Leave a Comment