Six children die in Karachi HIV outbreak as Sindh orders swift investigation

Saeed Ghani says the government remained committed to supporting the affected families and was working closely with medical experts, including specialists from the private sector

KARACHI: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-July 14th, 2026) Sindh Labour and Social Protection Minister Saeed Ghani on Tuesday confirmed that six children affected by the HIV outbreak linked to Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital in Karachi have died, as the provincial government continues its investigation into the incident.

Speaking at a press conference, Saeed Ghani said the government remained committed to supporting the affected families and was working closely with medical experts, including specialists from the private sector, to contain the outbreak and ensure proper treatment for the patients.

He said official records indicate that 78 children have so far been diagnosed with HIV in cases linked to the hospital, adding that the number could increase as investigations and screening continue.

According to the minister, health authorities have screened around 10,500 people living in nearby areas, with 120 individuals testing positive for HIV. However, he clarified that investigations have not established that all of those infected contracted the virus at the hospital.

Ghani said a standardized patient assessment form had been developed in consultation with medical experts to collect detailed information that would help investigators identify the source of the infections and determine the full scope of the outbreak.

Regarding disciplinary action, the minister said show-cause notices had been issued to 10 individuals in connection with the case.

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He added that, on the directions of the provincial ombudsman, a separate inquiry committee had also been constituted to investigate the matter.

The inquiry committee submitted its report on June 19, following which provincial authorities suspended 37 employees whose Names were identified in the investigation, Ghani said.

He stressed that medical treatment for all HIV-positive children continued uninterrupted throughout the inquiry process and assured that the identities and personal information of the affected patients were being kept strictly confidential.

"The families of affected children are naturally concerned, and the government is making every effort to ensure they receive the necessary medical care and support," he said.

The HIV outbreak at the Sindh Employees' Social Security Institution (SESSI)-run Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital remains under investigation, with authorities examining allegations that contaminated syringes may have been reused during medical procedures.

Meanwhile, the Sindh High Court has sought an explanation from the provincial government regarding the outbreak as the inquiry continues.

To support long-term treatment and welfare for the affected children, the Sindh Employees' Social Security Institution (SESSI) has allocated Rs2 billion for an endowment fund dedicated to their medical care and rehabilitation.