Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has taken action following an HIV outbreak among dialysis patients at Nishtar Hospital, Multan, by suspending the Medical Superintendent (MS) and several medical staff for criminal negligence. The outbreak occurred due to violations of infection control protocols, including improper testing and the reuse of dialysis equipment. The suspensions include key staff such as the Head of Nephrology and medical officers.
The hospital staff attempted to conceal the confirmed cases, which led to further spread. During a visit to the hospital, Nawaz expressed concern over the negligence and ordered strict action under the Peda Act, as well as compensation for the affected patients.
Despite the suspensions, the hospital staff staged protests in response, criticizing the decision and voicing dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the situation. The investigation into the matter continues, as a committee formed to probe the outbreak has not yet completed its report.
