MQM claims 200 children infected with HIV

Leaders of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) have alleged that medical negligence at Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital in Karachi resulted in nearly 200 children contracting HIV, while nine children reportedly lost their lives

Leaders of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) have alleged that medical negligence at Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital in Karachi resulted in nearly 200 children contracting HIV, while nine children reportedly lost their lives. The allegations were made during a press conference at the Karachi Press Club, where party leaders called for an independent investigation and strict action against those found responsible.

Senior MQM leader Kishwar Zehra, accompanied by party leaders Zahid Mansoori and senior advocate Tariq Mansoor, described the reported incident as a major public health tragedy. They urged the Sindh government to immediately investigate the matter and ensure accountability if negligence is established.

Speaking at the press conference, Zahid Mansoori alleged that the repeated use of disposable syringes by hospital staff may have contributed to the spread of HIV among children. He claimed that if these allegations are confirmed, the incident reflects serious failures in healthcare oversight and infection control practices.

MQM leaders further demanded legal action against the relevant government officials and the provincial health minister if investigations establish negligence. They argued that those responsible should be held accountable to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

The party also called for comprehensive medical screening and treatment for all affected children and support for their families. According to MQM, the matter requires transparent investigations to restore public confidence in the healthcare system.

At the time of the press conference, the allegations had not been independently verified by health authorities, and no official investigation findings had been released confirming the reported figures or the alleged cause of the infections.

Public health experts note that HIV transmission in healthcare settings can occur if proper infection prevention measures are not followed, including the reuse of disposable medical equipment. Such cases require detailed epidemiological and forensic investigations before conclusions can be reached.

The incident has generated widespread public concern and renewed discussions about patient safety, infection control, and the quality of healthcare services in public hospitals. Authorities are expected to examine the allegations, review hospital practices, and determine whether any negligence occurred based on medical evidence and official inquiries.

The case remains subject to investigation, and further updates are expected as health authorities and law enforcement agencies continue their inquiries.