Six more children diagnosed with HIV at Karachi’s Valika Hospital
Six more children have been diagnosed with HIV at Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital in Karachi, raising the total number of confirmed cases to 16, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Tuesday.
The latest development was disclosed during a hearing chaired by Sindh Provincial Ombudsman Muhammad Sohail Rajput, who reviewed the hospital’s response to the outbreak and directed authorities to take immediate corrective measures.
The hearing was attended by Sindh Labour Secretary Sajid Jamal Abro, Sindh Employees' Social Security Institution (SESSI) commissioner Hadi Bakhsh Kalhoro, Senior Medical Advisor and Focal person Dr Saadat, Medical Superintendent Dr Ghayasuddin, and the parents of affected children.
During the proceedings, the Ombudsman reviewed the hospital’s administrative arrangements and expressed concern over the continued spread of HIV among children. Officials informed the hearing that 16 children have so far4 tested positive for HIV, while fears remain that more cases could emerge.
Parents of the affected children complained that the hospital administration had failed to corporate with them. They also raised concerns over the shortage of medicines, the attitude of hospital staff, delays in the payment of treatment-related expenses, and the lack of essential medical support.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the hospital's performance, the Sindh Ombudsman said there was an urgent need to improve the quality of healthcare services. He suggested appointing trained professionals and filling senior positions with experienced personnel from the public health sector.
He also directed authorities to explore the possibility of deputing doctors from the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital to Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital for a period of six months to strengthen patient care.
The Ombudsman instructed the hospital administration to ensure the uninterrupted supply of medicines, dietary supplements, and other essential medical equipment for patients.
Speaking during the hearing, Muhammad Sohail Rajput said that the HIV outbreak appeared to be linked to the hospital's financial and administrative issues, although further investigation is required to determine the exact cause.
To ensure transparency, he directed officials to identify a reputable audit firm within two weeks to conduct a comprehensive audit of the hospital's financial and administrative affairs.
The Ombudsman also instructed the Director General Labour to take steps for the rehabilitation of workers who lost their jobs while caring for their sick children. He further directed authorities to ensure compensation for the families of children who died and rehabilitation support for those currently living with the disease.
Recognizing the emotional impact on affected families, he ordered the appointment of psychologists to provide mental health support and counseling to the children and their families.
In addition, Muhammad Sohail Rajput emphasized the need for a public awareness campaign through the media and social media, highlighting that HIV is a manageable disease with timely diagnosis and proper treatment, while also educating the public on prevention and reducing stigma.
He further directed the hospital administration to establish a help desk near the hospital's main entrance to assist patients and their families.
At the conclusion of the proceedings, the Sindh Provincial Ombudsman adjourned the hearing for two weeks, directing the relevant authorities to submit progress on the implementation of the issued directives.
Reporter: Aajiz Jamali