Islamabad, April 15: A recent investigation has revealed alarming negligence at a government hospital in Punjab, Pakistan, linked to the spread of HIV among children. The Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in Taunsa was previously associated with a significant HIV outbreak in 2025. Following this incident, the Punjab government announced actions, suspending the hospital’s medical superintendent in March. However, a BBC investigation has uncovered that children’s lives remain at risk.
The BBC’s “BBC Eye Investigation” team conducted undercover filming at the hospital for several weeks. The footage revealed multiple serious violations of medical protocols. Nurses were seen administering injections over patients’ clothing, reusing dirty syringes, and untrained personnel were injecting children with contaminated medication.
According to the BBC report, additional issues were highlighted in the hidden camera footage. Staff were handling medical waste without gloves, needles and syringes were left exposed, and unauthorized individuals were working in the children’s ward. A shortage of staff and medical supplies was also reported. Families were often instructed to bring their own medications, and under pressure, staff reused equipment and medicines across multiple patients.
From November 2024 to October 2025, at least 331 children tested positive for HIV in Taunsa, according to the BBC. Among the parents tested, fewer than one in twenty were found to be HIV positive. Despite the government’s actions in March, new cases of infection have continued to arise.
Hospital officials have denied any wrongdoing. The current medical superintendent, Dr. Qasim Buzdar, suggested that the footage might have been recorded before his tenure or could have been manipulated.
Former medical superintendent Dr. Tayyab Chandio, who was previously suspended, has been reinstated at another government hospital. Officials stated that there are no legal restrictions preventing his employment.
New cases of HIV continue to emerge in Taunsa. The BBC’s report indicates that 19 new cases have been identified in the last four months, and nine children have died due to HIV-related complications.
–
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