HIV (AIDS) cases are rapidly increasing across Sindh, prompting the provincial government to express serious concern and announce strict measures to curb the spread of the disease.
Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Pechuho stated that the rising number of HIV cases is primarily due to homosexual activities, the widespread presence of unqualified doctors, illegal medical centers, and unregistered blood banks. She emphasized that those endangering public health will face indiscriminate action, and no political or influential recommendations will be accepted.
During a meeting held in Karachi, all deputy commissioners and SSPs from across the province attended online, while representatives from the Sindh Healthcare Commission, Blood Transfusion Authority, and the Department of Infectious Diseases provided detailed briefings.
Officials revealed that around 600,000 unqualified doctors are operating in Sindh, with nearly 40 percent based in Karachi. These illegal clinics have become a major reason for the alarming spread of HIV across the province.
According to official data, nearly 4,000 children in Sindh have been diagnosed with HIV. Larkana tops the list with 1,144 reported cases, followed by 509 in Shikarpur, 256 in Shaheed Benazirabad, 228 in Mirpurkhas, and dozens of cases in other districts.
Authorities admitted that most infections in affected areas are caused by unregistered clinics, contaminated syringes, and the reuse of blades by unqualified medical practitioners.
Dr. Azra Pechuho instructed the Sindh Healthcare Commission, police, and district administrations to immediately launch a crackdown against illegal medical practices. She also ordered a ban on the sale of hospital waste, mandatory screening of pregnant women, and preventive measures to stop mother-to-child transmission of the virus.
The minister warned that if any sealed centers attempt to reopen, those responsible will be arrested. Dr. Pechuho firmly stated that the Sindh government will take every possible step to protect public health and will not allow anyone to endanger human lives.
