A parliamentary committee has expressed serious concern after learning that nearly 20,000 HIV Patients in Pakistan have gone missing after starting treatment at antiretroviral therapy centers. The issue was discussed during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on health matters.
Health officials informed lawmakers that patient follow-up remains a major challenge. They said counseling and long-term treatment retention are weak points in Pakistan’s HIV response system.
According to the health ministry, around 369,000 people are living with HIV in Pakistan. However, only 84,000 cases are officially registered. This shows a large gap in testing and reporting. Officials also shared that 14,000 new HIV cases were reported in 2025.
The committee called the issue urgent and sensitive. Members stressed the need for a national strategy instead of separate actions by provinces or departments. They said tracking HIV Patients after diagnosis is critical for controlling the spread.
Officials reported that HIV screening has increased in recent years. Testing rose from 37,000 in 2020 to over 374,000 in 2025. Lawmakers said more testing is a positive step. However, they warned that detection alone does not mean the disease is under control.
Committee members said success should be measured by fewer new infections. They pointed to repeated outbreaks in areas like Taunsa Sharif, Kot Momin, and South Punjab. These outbreaks highlight unsafe medical practices and weak infection control.
During the briefing, officials discussed the Walika outbreak in Karachi. They said it was linked to the use of 10cc syringes. These syringes were not banned earlier. The health ministry said reusable syringes, including 10cc variants, will now be phased out.
Lawmakers questioned why banned syringes are still available in markets. They also raised concerns over poor monitoring of blood banks. Public awareness about HIV remains low, while social stigma continues to affect HIV Patients seeking treatment.
The committee also discussed health risks linked to returning deportees. Officials said a new system is being prepared for better health screening at entry points.
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The government is now working on a master plan to improve HIV control. Lawmakers demanded quick action, including safer syringes, strict monitoring, and awareness campaigns to stop the spread of HIV.
