A large-scale HIV screening campaign has been announced in Karachi after dozens of children were found infected with the virus. The testing planned initiative will focus on Pathan Colony and Kulsum Bai Valika Hospital following reports linking several cases to treatment at the hospital.
According to sources, the federal government has decided to support the screening campaign by providing 50,000 HIV testing kits. The effort will be carried out in coordination with the Sindh government.
Officials said the testing planned campaign will be conducted by the Sindh AIDS Control Programme. HIV screening will take place at both Valika Hospital and Pathan Colony.
The testing kits will be handed over to the Sindh AIDS Control Programme, which will use them to examine suspected patients visiting the hospital and residents living in the affected area.
Authorities said individuals who test positive will be officially registered under the government’s HIV control programme. They will also receive free medical treatment and medication.
The decision follows growing concern over HIV infections among children in Karachi. According to officials, the outbreak has affected a significant number of young patients.
Saeed Ghani confirmed that at least 78 children were infected with HIV at Valika Hospital. The hospital operates under the Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI) and falls under the Sindh Labour Department.
Reports also indicate that more than 100 children from Pathan Colony have tested positive for HIV during the past nine months. The figures have raised serious concerns about healthcare practices and infection control measures.
Residents of the area have claimed that at least nine children died during the past year after contracting HIV. These claims have further increased public concern about the outbreak.
The affected children are currently receiving treatment at Valika Hospital under the supervision of medical professionals.
According to an inquiry report obtained by ARY News, investigators believe the outbreak was caused by the repeated use of disposable syringes on multiple patients.
The report stated that a 10cc syringe was allegedly reused on several newborn babies during treatment. Investigators believe this practice contributed to the spread of HIV among children receiving medical care.
Health experts have repeatedly warned that disposable syringes should only be used once. Reusing medical equipment significantly increases the risk of transmitting infectious diseases.
Officials said the testing planned campaign aims to identify additional cases at an early stage. Early diagnosis will help ensure that infected individuals receive timely treatment and medical support.
Authorities also hope the screening programme will provide a clearer understanding of the extent of the outbreak. The results are expected to assist health officials in planning further preventive measures.
Meanwhile, investigations into the reported syringe reuse continue. Relevant authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding the outbreak to determine responsibility and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The government has urged residents of the affected areas to cooperate with the screening teams. The testing planned campaign is expected to play a key role in identifying infections, providing treatment and strengthening public health efforts to control the spread of HIV.
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