Karachi records dramatic increase in paediatric HIV cases

Karachi faces a concerning health crisis as pediatric HIV infections surge dramatically throughout 2024. Medical facilities across the city have documented 159 children diagnosed with HIV, hospitalized across three major healthcare institutions. This alarming trend highlights significant gaps in prevention, screening, and maternal-to-child transmission protocols. Public health officials are investigating potential transmission routes and implementing urgent interventions to contain the outbreak. The situation underscores the critical need for enhanced awareness, accessible testing programs, and comprehensive care strategies targeting vulnerable pediatric populations in urban Pakistan.