Pakistan’s health authorities are preparing for a possible visit by an international review team as concerns grow over the increasing number of HIV cases. According to Beyond Time News, officials have already begun taking preventive steps to control the situation.
Government Moves to Curb HIV Spread
The health ministry has directed the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) and the Common Management Unit (CMU) to develop a system that prevents the spread of HIV, especially through the reuse of syringes.
Experts believe the visiting team from the Global Fund will push for stronger technical leadership in disease control programmes rather than relying on administrative officials.
Rising HIV Cases Raise Alarm
Recent reports highlight a worrying spike in cases:
- Over 300 children in Taunsa were infected, reportedly due to reused syringes
- Islamabad recorded at least 618 new HIV cases between January 2025 and March 2026
Health experts point to unsafe medical practices, including contaminated syringes and poor blood screening, as key causes behind the spread of HIV.
Parliament Steps In
The issue has also reached lawmakers. The National Assembly’s health committee, led by Mahesh Kumar Malani, has taken notice and asked for a detailed briefing on the situation.
Officials say the Global Fund team is expected in early May, although travel plans remain uncertain due to regional tensions.
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Funding and System Challenges
Over the past 20 years, the Global Fund has invested more than $1 billion in Pakistan to fight HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.
However, concerns remain about how these programmes are managed. Some officials claim that:
- Earlier, technical experts handled disease programmes
- Later, administrative control increased after programmes were merged
- This shift may have slowed progress
An earlier audit also highlighted weak governance, limited planning, and frequent leadership changes as major hurdles.
Syringe Policy Under Review
To reduce infections, authorities have already:
- Replaced 2cc and 5cc syringes with auto-disable versions
- Begun reviewing the use of 10cc syringes, which can still be reused
The ministry is now investigating whether these larger syringes are contributing to new infections and may ban them if needed.
Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal has reportedly prioritized the issue and is pushing for urgent action.
What Happens Next?
Pakistan’s response in the coming weeks will be critical. With international scrutiny expected, authorities face pressure to improve healthcare practices, strengthen oversight, and prevent further spread of HIV.
The focus now remains on quick reforms and better safety measures to protect public health.
