Health experts have raised alarm over the rising number of HIV cases in Pakistan, estimating that the total number of people living with HIV has reached around HIV/AIDS has surged to approximately 370,000 across the country.
According to medical specialists, the infection is no longer confined to high-risk groups and is now increasingly spreading within the general population. Experts further warned that nearly 79 percent of affected individuals remain unaware of their HIV status, raising concerns over silent transmission.
Former federal health minister Zafar Mirza said the growing number of cases among children reflects systemic failures in the healthcare system, adding that HIV is now being reported in both general population and pediatric cases.
Public health expert Qais Saeed identified unsafe injections and contaminated blood transfusions as major causes behind the spread, while Dr. Rana Jawad Asghar said repeated outbreaks indicate weaknesses in the health infrastructure.
Experts have stressed the need for strict monitoring of blood banks, complete screening of donated blood, and improved infection control practices. They warned that without immediate intervention, the situation could worsen further.
Meanwhile, concerns have emerged over data gaps in Rawalpindi, where no updated record of HIV patients is reportedly available. The HIV center established at Benazir Bhutto Hospital is also said to be non-functional.
Health department sources said no dedicated doctor has been appointed for HIV patients in the region, and no medical staff is currently available at the hospital’s HIV center. Officials added that due to a malfunction in the data dashboard, patient statistics could not be released on time.
According to available figures, 148 HIV cases were reported in Adiala Jail last year. Authorities have stated that updated data on HIV patients will be released soon.