What You Need to Know
• At least 130 individuals, primarily children, have tested HIV-positive linked to a Karachi hospital outbreak.
• Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani reported that over 10,500 people were screened at Kulsum Bai Valika Hospital.
• Two internal inquiries revealed serious lapses in infection control, leading to increased cases and deaths.
At least 130 people, mostly children, have tested HIV-positive due to an outbreak at the Kulsum Bai Valika Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan, as reported by Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani. The screening process involved over 10,500 individuals, with 120 confirmed positive cases at this government-run facility. A separate screening at another Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI) facility identified an additional 10 cases. The outbreak first gained attention in November 2025, although officials traced the initial infections back to October 2025. Internal inquiries have revealed significant failures in infection prevention protocols, leading to a rise in infections and six reported deaths. Minister Ghani indicated that all cases were linked to exposures before October 2025 and that further screening would continue despite concerns of additional cases emerging.
Why It Matters
This outbreak highlights ongoing public health challenges in Sindh, particularly concerning HIV transmission among vulnerable populations, such as children. The Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution is responsible for healthcare services in the region, and lapses in their protocols have led to serious consequences. Historical data indicates that similar outbreaks have occurred in the past, raising concerns about the adequacy of healthcare practices in government facilities. The situation underscores the need for improved infection control measures and accountability within healthcare institutions to prevent future incidents.
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