The HIV outbreak linked to Kulsum Bai Valika (KBV) Hospital in Karachi has grown to 120 confirmed cases, prompting the Sindh government to announce legal action against doctors and hospital staff found responsible for negligence. Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani confirmed the latest figures during a press conference held at the Sindh Assembly.
According to the minister, health authorities have screened more than 10,500 people at KBV Hospital and nearby areas as part of an extensive investigation into the outbreak. The testing campaign identified 120 individuals infected with HIV, while affected children are currently receiving treatment at five major hospitals across Pakistan.
Among the confirmed patients, 81 are beneficiaries of the Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI), while the remaining 39 are not registered under the institution. Despite this, the Sindh government is providing free medical treatment to all affected individuals.
The screening campaign has also been expanded to SESSI’s Landhi Hospital, where approximately 2,000 people were tested. Officials confirmed that 10 additional HIV-positive cases were detected during this exercise. Authorities have pledged to continue large-scale screening efforts, emphasizing that early detection is essential for controlling the spread of HIV.
Saeed Ghani stated that all confirmed cases are linked to infections that occurred before October 2025, adding that no new outbreak-related cases have been reported since then. He rejected criticism that the provincial government had delayed its response, saying health officials began screening residents immediately after the first cases emerged and quickly established an inquiry committee.
The minister revealed that 37 doctors and hospital staff members have been issued show-cause notices. Those found guilty of negligence will face disciplinary action, dismissal from service, and criminal proceedings, including the registration of FIRs.
To support affected families, the Sindh government has established a Rs2 billion endowment fund for the treatment and welfare of infected children. Officials also assured that the identities of patients would remain confidential under the Sindh HIV and AIDS Control, Treatment and Protection Act, 2013, to protect families from stigma and discrimination.
Medical experts, including representatives from Indus Hospital and Aga Khan University Hospital, stressed that the HIV outbreak highlights the urgent need for stronger infection prevention measures, improved clinical waste management, and stricter healthcare safety protocols across both public and private medical facilities in Pakistan.
