In Pakistan, HIV is rapidly spreading from specific groups and regions into general cities and the wider population.
According to details, the rising number of HIV cases in Pakistan has sounded alarm bells across the country. Health experts say the deadly disease is no longer confined to specific groups but is quickly taking root among the general population and in smaller cities.
Reports indicate that the total number of people affected by HIV in Pakistan has reached 370,000.
The most alarming aspect is that 79 percent of those affected are completely unaware of their condition, unknowingly contributing to the spread of the virus. The virus is now rapidly affecting children and the general public.
Health experts have termed the current situation a failure of the healthcare system, stating that the use of unsafe injections and the transfusion of contaminated blood are the major causes of the spread of this disease.
Former Health Minister Dr Zafar Mirza has warned that the increasing number of HIV cases among children reflects serious weaknesses in the healthcare system.
Dr Rana Jawad Asghar said that repeated outbreaks are proof that the measures taken to control the disease are insufficient.
Experts have warned that if monitoring of blood banks, proper screening, and infection control are not immediately improved, the situation could turn into a major health crisis.
They emphasized that screening before blood transfusions must be ensured 100 percent, strict regulations on the use of disposable syringes and sterilization of medical equipment must be enforced in hospitals and clinics, and public awareness about screening and testing should be increased so that undiagnosed patients can be identified.
