Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has implemented a strict zero tolerance policy following the alarming revelations of HIV cases at the Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital. The severity of the situation was highlighted by the diagnosis of HIV in 78 children, after which a comprehensive review meeting was held with government officials.
During the meeting held today, the Chief Minister expressed his displeasure over the negligence in healthcare and stated that such lapses will not be tolerated. The initial cases were reported in October 2025, followed by extensive investigations by the Sindh Employees Social Security Institution (SESSI), which highlighted serious deficiencies in infection control and hospital management.
As a significant step, a trust fund of 2 billion rupees has been established for the treatment and rehabilitation of affected children and their families. The Chief Minister emphasized the need to ensure uninterrupted medical care for the welfare of the children.
SESSI’s investigations exposed administrative failures, resulting in the suspension of 37 hospital staff members, including doctors and nurses. Show cause notices have been issued, with responses sought within 14 days. Additionally, departmental actions are underway against 10 officers in cases of negligence.
SESSI has initiated corrective measures, which include the establishment of a special anti-retroviral therapy center and a separate ward for HIV-positive children in the hospital. Routine HIV screening has been initiated, and infection control protocols have been implemented in all SESSI hospitals.
Over 300 healthcare workers underwent HIV screening, of which two were found positive. The hospital has acquired the expertise of Professor Dr. Fatima Mir for the special treatment and counseling of children affected by HIV.
To prevent such incidents in the future, the Chief Minister has ordered a complete review of infection control systems in provincial hospitals. Emphasizing patient safety, he has demanded strict adherence to cleanliness and waste disposal protocols, along with strengthening monitoring systems through third-party audits.
The Chief Minister announced that this incident should serve as a catalyst to improve the standards of patient safety in the healthcare system, enabling the implementation of high-quality medical care and robust infection prevention measures in Sindh’s SESSI hospitals.