National HIV policy still under discussion as Pakistan pushes Hepatitis C elimination

Pakistan has prepared a National AIDS Strategic Plan for 2026 to 2031, but work on a comprehensive national HIV strategy and policy

Islamabad: Pakistan has prepared a National AIDS Strategic Plan for 2026 to 2031, but work on a comprehensive national HIV strategy and policy is still under discussion, according to a written reply presented in the National Assembly. The government says it is also expanding HIV treatment services and running a national programme to eliminate Hepatitis C through free screening, diagnosis and treatment.

Federal Minister for National Health Services Syed Mustafa Kamal said the government recognised the need for a coordinated national strategy to control infectious diseases, including HIV and Hepatitis C.

The National AIDS Control Programme, working under the Ministry of National Health Services, has completed an epidemiological review of HIV to assess the spread of the disease and identify outbreaks. It has also completed a Joint Programmatic Review with national and international consultants to identify weaknesses, gaps and areas where existing efforts could be improved.

The programme has prepared the National AIDS Strategic Plan for 2026 to 2031. Separate provincial strategic plans have also been prepared for every province. Following directions from the federal health minister, discussions have begun on a wider national HIV strategy and policy to guide related activities across the country.

The government is also working to expand antiretroviral therapy centres to every district. These centres provide medicines and care to people living with HIV. The reply did not give a deadline for completing the expansion.

For Hepatitis C, the government has developed an integrated national plan under the Prime Minister’s National Programme for the Elimination of Hepatitis C Infection. The programme covers free screening, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, public awareness and regular monitoring.

People aged 12 years and above who are eligible under the programme will be screened through rapid diagnostic tests. Anyone who tests positive will undergo a confirmatory PCR test. People confirmed to have Hepatitis C will then be provided appropriate treatment.

In Islamabad, 40 health facilities are already providing services under the programme. Around 50 Lady Health Workers are being trained to carry out screening and testing, explain preventive practices and help communities learn about available services.

Training has also started in Gilgit Baltistan, where the programme is expected to be formally launched shortly. The government says these steps are intended to encourage more people to get tested and follow measures that can prevent infection.

The programme also focuses on stopping new infections through better infection control in hospitals, safe injection practices, properly screened blood supplies and effective sterilisation of medical equipment. Awareness campaigns, community outreach, the involvement of healthcare workers and digital monitoring systems are being used to improve participation and track implementation.

A comprehensive media campaign was planned to begin in the first week of October 2026 to spread awareness about Hepatitis C prevention, screening and treatment.

The programme is being carried out with federal and provincial health departments under the guidance of the National Task Force for the Elimination of Hepatitis C, which monitors progress and provides direction.

The government’s stated approach combines testing and treatment with public awareness and stronger safety practices in healthcare facilities. However, the reply did not provide nationwide screening targets, a final date for approval of the national HIV policy or a completion deadline for the expansion of HIV treatment centres.