SHC Orders Investigation into HIV Outbreak Among Children in Karachi

The Sindh High Court (SHC) has directed the provincial government to form a committee to conduct an independent, impartial, and comprehensive investigation into the recent HIV outbreak among children at Kulsum Bai Valika Hospital in Karachi. This directive came as part of the SHC's reserved judgment regarding a petition that sought an inquiry into the incident, the registration of a case, and the provision of lifelong medical treatment for the affected children.

The court has mandated a two-month period for the committee to report on the actual number of children affected, identify the causes of HIV transmission, and assess whether there was any reuse of syringes involved in the outbreak.

A two-member bench of the SHC, consisting of Justice Adnanul Karim Memon and Justice Muhammad Jaffer Raza, underscored the importance of a thorough investigation to address the alarming situation. The court’s directive aims to ensure accountability and safety in healthcare practices.