Sindh minister confirms 78 children infected with HIV at Karachi hospital

Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani has confirmed that at least 78 children have contracted HIV/AIDS at Valika Hospital in Karachi, a facility run by the Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI). The outbreak is suspected to stem from the alleged reuse of contaminated syringes.

The Sindh High Court had previously given the provincial government two weeks to explain the HIV outbreak at the hospital, which is located in the SITE area. A petitioner, Tariq Mansoor, had asked the court to order an independent inquiry, file a case, and ensure lifelong medical treatment and compensation for the affected children, claiming the total number of infected children could be as high as 200.

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We assure the families of the affected children that the Labour Department and the Sindh government will not leave them alone to face this ordeal. We will ensure their complete medical treatment and provide every possible support.

Minister Ghani described the situation as a "serious issue" and assured families that the Labour Department and the Sindh government would provide complete medical treatment and support. He stated that an initial inquiry committee was formed on October 29, 2025, leading to the suspension of several officials. A second inquiry committee was established on November 7, 2025, following a petition to the provincial ombudsman.

Ghani vowed that no one found guilty of negligence, including doctors, paramedical staff, or other officials, would be spared. He emphasized that financial compensation alone would not suffice and that the government's priority is ensuring the children receive comprehensive care.

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Compensation is too small a word. We will ensure these children receive co