Sindh High Court seeks report on Karachi HIV outbreak

The Sindh High Court has sought detailed reports from provincial health authorities and police officials over

The Sindh High Court has sought detailed reports from provincial health authorities and police officials over allegations of an HIV outbreak among children reportedly linked to the reuse of contaminated syringes at a Karachi hospital.

The matter came before a two-member bench after a citizen filed a public interest petition seeking an independent investigation into the incident and action against those found responsible.

According to the petition, dozens of children are believed to have contracted HIV after receiving treatment at a public hospital operating under the Sindh Employees Social Security Institution (SESSI). The petitioner alleged that unsafe medical practices and serious negligence may have contributed to the spread of infections.

The court noted concerns raised in the petition regarding reports that the number of affected children could range from more than 80 to over 200, while some fatalities have also reportedly been linked to the outbreak.

The petitioner argued that despite widespread public concern and media reports, authorities had yet to conduct a transparent and time-bound inquiry to determine responsibility and hold those involved accountable.

The court was informed that legal notices had already been sent to relevant institutions demanding an independent investigation, criminal proceedings against those responsible, disclosure of inquiry findings, medical screening of affected children and compensation for victims.

However, it was alleged that only limited administrative action had been taken so far, with authorities mainly seeking internal reports from concerned departments.

The petition further stated that preliminary details of several affected children had been submitted before the court, while the actual number of cases could be significantly higher.

The petitioner also highlighted concerns regarding the continued misuse and illegal reuse of disposable syringes despite existing laws aimed at regulating medical waste and protecting patients from infection.

During the hearing, government representatives requested additional time to submit their response and comments before the court.

The Sindh High Court subsequently directed the provincial health secretary and the inspector general of police to provide detailed reports on the matter and adjourned further proceedings until later this month.

The petition seeks an independent inquiry, criminal action against those responsible and long-term medical support for affected children, including treatment and financial compensation.

The case has once again raised serious questions about infection control measures, patient safety standards and oversight of healthcare facilities in the province.

Health experts have repeatedly warned that unsafe injection practices and the reuse of disposable medical equipment can contribute to the spread of serious infectious diseases and pose a major public health risk.