Hospitals in Karachi have reported a sharp increase in pediatric HIV Cases over the past nine months. Health experts say the trend is worrying and needs urgent attention.
Three major hospitals in the city have recorded a steady rise in infections. Officials say the increase highlights gaps in infection control and medical safety practices.
Rising HIV Cases in Hospitals
At the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital and Research Centre, only 10 pediatric HIV Cases were recorded in 2024. This number increased to over 70 in 2025. So far this year, 30 new cases have been admitted.
The Indus Hospital Karachi has also reported a rise in infections. It documented 144 HIV patients in 2024. The number increased to 176 in 2025. In the first quarter of this year, 69 new HIV Cases were reported.
Doctors said most affected children are under five years old. Many of them are diagnosed at advanced stages of infection.
Unsafe Medical Practices Identified
Health experts believe unsafe medical procedures are a major reason behind rising HIV Cases. These include reuse of syringes and contaminated medical equipment.
Unscreened blood transfusions are also considered a major risk factor. Experts say such practices continue in some healthcare facilities.
Dr Samreen Sarfaraz stated that most pediatric infections are not linked to HIV-positive mothers. Instead, they are linked to unsafe medical exposure.
Concerns Over Infection Control
Doctors warned that lessons from the 2019 Ratodero outbreak have not been fully implemented. Infection control practices remain weak in some areas.
Experts also highlighted excessive use of injections instead of oral medication. They said this increases the risk of spreading infections.
Health professionals stressed the need for stricter monitoring of medical procedures to prevent further HIV Cases.
Treatment Challenges and Drug Issues
Many children are arriving at hospitals in severe condition. Some also suffer from tuberculosis along with HIV infection.
Doctors raised concerns about shortages of antiretroviral and tuberculosis medicines. Reduced international support has affected supply chains.
Cases Linked to Interior Sindh
Another hospital in Karachi reported over 60 pediatric HIV Cases. Many of these children came from Thatta and nearby districts.
Doctors said several infections were detected during pre-surgery screening. Repeated injections over time may have contributed to the spread.
Official Response and Safety Concerns
Health authorities acknowledged the rise in reported HIV Cases. However, some officials said improved testing may also explain the increase.
The Sindh Healthcare Commission and the Sindh Blood Transfusion Authority are responsible for ensuring safety standards.
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Experts warned that Pakistan may be facing a growing HIV burden. They called for stronger enforcement of infection control measures across all healthcare facilities.
