Karachi: A cluster of HIV cases has emerged in Karachi’s SITE Town, where multiple children aged between one and nine have tested positive, prompting alarm among residents and local authorities. At least two children have reportedly died, with the total number of confirmed infections rising as screening expands in the area.
The situation came to light after families from UC-1 reported that their children, who had been receiving treatment at the Kulsum Bai Valika Social Security Hospital, were diagnosed with HIV. Local representatives formed a five-member committee to push for an urgent response and demand accountability from the hospital’s administration.
Hospital officials say screening and treatment have begun, while the Sindh Health Department has assured that additional anti-retroviral therapy (ART) centres are being established to manage rising caseloads. However, the source of the outbreak remains under investigation.
Dr. Kanwal Mustafa, Additional Director for HIV/AIDS, said the department is pursuing a comprehensive strategy to contain the spread and ensure proper care for affected children.
Residents have raised concerns over alleged unsafe medical practices at the hospital, including the reuse of syringes — a claim that, if confirmed, could point to serious lapses in infection control. Health experts note that structural issues such as poverty, low literacy rates, unregulated clinics and overreliance on injections continue to fuel vulnerability to HIV transmission in underserved communities.
The inquiry is ongoing as authorities work to trace the cause and prevent further cases.