What is the current HIV situation for children in Sindh?

The Pakistan Medical Association reports nearly 4,000 children registered as HIV-positive in Sindh, with over 100 new cases in Karachi.

What measures are being called for by the Pakistan Medical Association?

The PMA is demanding stringent infection control, crackdowns on quack clinics and illegal blood banks, and full enforcement of the Sindh HIV and AIDS Control Treatment and Protection Act.

What are the socioeconomic impacts of the HIV outbreak in Sindh?

The HIV outbreak threatens socioeconomic well-being, potentially leading families into debt due to the lifelong cost of treatment.

Home / Health / Sindh Children Face HIV Crisis: PMA Sounds Alarm

Sindh Children Face HIV Crisis: PMA Sounds Alarm

27 Jan

•

Summary

Nearly 4,000 children registered HIV-positive in Sindh province.
Over 100 new HIV cases reported in Karachi alone recently.
PMA demands crackdown on illegal clinics and unsafe practices.

Sindh Children Face HIV Crisis: PMA Sounds Alarm

The Pakistan Medical Association has declared a high-level alert due to a significant surge in HIV cases affecting children in Sindh, Pakistan. The provincial registry indicates 3,995 children are HIV-positive, with over 100 new cases identified in Karachi alone in recent times. This health crisis poses a substantial threat to the nation's socioeconomic stability, potentially plunging families into debt due to the high cost of lifelong treatment.

The PMA has called for immediate and strict enforcement of infection control protocols. Concerns have been raised regarding the efficacy of the Sindh AIDS Control Programme, especially after the 2019 Ratodero outbreak. The association is urging for crackdowns on quack clinics and illegal blood banks, citing repeated violations of global safety standards and the unsafe reuse of medical equipment like syringes and razors.