The federal government has decided to significantly strengthen HIV screening and regulatory measures following a rise in reported HIV cases across the country.
The proposed measures include mandatory HIV testing before surgical procedures and enhanced screening of deported individuals at airports and entry points.
According to the Ministry of National Health Services, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took notice of the situation and formed a high-level task force to investigate the issue and recommend corrective measures.
The task force’s second meeting was held under the leadership of Mukhtar Bharth, with representatives from relevant institutions in attendance.
Dr. Bharth said the task force was established to determine the causes behind the increase in HIV cases, identify those responsible, and propose measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The task force was specifically directed to investigate incidents involving the reuse of contaminated syringes.
During the meeting, it was agreed that the National Institute of Health (NIH), through its CDC and Common Management Unit, would activate a real-time data dashboard for HIV case monitoring, trend analysis, and improved coordination among stakeholders.
Border Health Services was directed to ensure screening of deported individuals at airports and entry points to help contain HIV and other blood-borne infections.
The task force also agreed on preparing a National Public Health Law aimed at controlling HIV spread linked to unsafe medical practices.
It proposed mandatory HIV screening nationwide, including before surgeries, regular inspections of medical facilities and pharmacies, and strict penalties against violations and the sale or mislabeling of reusable syringes.
The meeting also stressed stronger infection prevention measures, enforcement of patient safety protocols, and timely availability of medical supplies to prevent syringe reuse. Participants acknowledged progress in the use of auto-disable syringes but noted that challenges still remain in ensuring safe medical practices.
The task force further recommended expanding testing, treatment, and preventive services in high-risk groups and affected areas, including HIV among notifiable diseases, and launching a nationwide awareness campaign.
Authorities were also directed to ensure strict prevention of syringe and IV set misuse and to adopt evidence-based strategies to curb the transmission of blood-borne diseases, including HIV.
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