The HIV outbreak linked to Karachi’s SESSI-run Valika Hospital has raised alarm after dozens of children were infected, prompting investigations, a large-scale screening campaign and renewed government assurances of accountability and long-term care for those affected.
According to the Sindh government, 78 children have so far tested positive for HIV in connection with the outbreak.
A second inquiry report, submitted to the provincial ombudsman on June 19, 2026, confirmed the 78 paediatric HIV cases and reported six deaths among the infected children.
Officials said many affected families are now facing lifelong challenges, with some households reporting that two or even three children have contracted the virus. Parents have also voiced concerns over the social stigma and discrimination associated with HIV.
Speaking on the government’s response, Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani said the Communicable Disease Control (CDC) unit launched a screening campaign on October 23, 2025, one day after receiving a report from Valika Hospital about the outbreak.
Since then, more than 10,500 residents living around the hospital in Karachi’s SITE area have been screened, with 120 people testing positive for HIV.
A separate screening drive at another SESSI-run hospital in Landhi tested around 2,000 people, identifying 10 additional HIV-positive cases.
The Sindh government has suspended hospital staff, initiated multiple investigations and pledged lifelong medical treatment for all children affected by the outbreak.
Minister Ghani said screening efforts would continue despite the growing number of confirmed cases, stressing the government’s commitment to containing the outbreak and supporting affected families.