HIV scare: Blood transfusion lapses exposed

A preliminary report from a Madhya Pradesh government inquiry team has revealed severe shortcomings at the Satna district hospital's blood centre, leading to five children with thalassemia contracting HIV through blood transfusions. The investigation highlighted failures in maintaining donor records, tracking test kit details, and conducting mandatory HIV and other tests correctly before transfusions.

Several senior hospital officials have been implicated. Dr. Manoj Shukla, former civil surgeon, faces a show-cause notice for allegedly neglecting his duty to inspect the blood centre and ensure proper testing. Dr. Devendra Patel, pathology specialist and blood bank in-charge, has been suspended for failing to discharge his responsibilities. Lab technicians Rambhai Tripathi and Nandlal Pandey are also cited for improperly testing blood and failing to maintain records.

The incident has triggered multiple probes by state and central health departments, including the National AIDS Control Organisation. Investigations are focusing on donor tracking, transfusion procedures, and compliance checks. The findings underscore a systemic breakdown in safeguarding vulnerable patients and ensuring the integrity of critical healthcare services.