Pakistan will launch a large-scale HIV screening campaign in parts of Karachi after reports of a suspected spread of the virus in Pathan Colony and at Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital, with federal authorities backing the initiative by supplying 50,000 testing kits.
According to an official report today, the Sindh AIDS Control Programme will conduct emergency HIV screening at Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital and in Pathan Colony. Under the campaign, all suspected patients visiting the hospital will undergo HIV testing, while residents of the affected neighbourhood will also be screened.
Individuals who test positive during the screening drive will be registered immediately and provided with free medicines and government-funded treatment, according to sources familiar with the plan.
The federal government has pledged full support to the Sindh government for the operation, including the provision of 50,000 HIV testing kits to strengthen the province’s screening capacity.
The screening initiative follows an investigation into an HIV outbreak involving children at Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital, where the Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI) has launched disciplinary proceedings against hospital personnel over alleged negligence.
According to an official notification, Dr. Amanullah Memon and Dr. Huma Aman have been suspended with immediate effect and instructed to report to the SESSI head office. Preliminary findings by the inquiry committee alleged negligence, administrative shortcomings and non-compliance with established medical protocols.