Karachi HIV Outbreak: 16 More Children Test Positive at Valika Hospital

A fresh health alarm has emerged in Karachi after the Sindh ombudsman was informed that 16 additional children had tested positive for HIV at the Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital, a facility run by the Sindh Employees Social Security Institution. The development was placed before Ombudsman Mohammad Sohail Rajput during a hearing linked to the continuing investigation into the hospital outbreak.

The new cases have pushed the reported number of infected children at the hospital to 94, intensifying concerns among families, health officials and public watchdogs. Earlier, the Sindh government had confirmed 78 infections at the same facility, but the latest report presented during the proceedings suggested the crisis had widened further.

According to details shared during the hearing, Adviser to the Ombudsman Haani Jamal Khan submitted findings that documented the 16 newly detected infections. Families of affected children also attended the proceedings and raised serious concerns about alleged administrative failures, lack of cooperation and delays in treatment-related support.

Officials present at the hearing assured the ombudsman that the newly reported cases would be examined and that complaints from affected families would be addressed. The ombudsman expressed dissatisfaction with the hospital's handling of the matter and directed the administration to ensure timely access to medicines, dietary supplements and essential care for the children.

The hearing also brought attention to gaps in hospital management that may have worsened the impact of the outbreak. The ombudsman ordered the establishment of a help desk near the hospital entrance so families could register complaints and receive guidance without delays or confusion.

To strengthen clinical support, the ombudsman directed authorities to obtain services of doctors from the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital for a six-month deputation at Valika Hospital. He also noted that trained public health professionals could be brought in to address shortages of senior staff and improve patient care.

The case has drawn public concern because it involves children and a public-sector-linked healthcare institution serving workers and their families. The ombudsman's office observed that financial and administrative weaknesses at the hospital may have contributed to the spread of infection, making accountability and institutional reform central to the inquiry.

Authorities were also ordered to identify a reputable audit firm within two weeks for a comprehensive review of the hospital's affairs. The ombudsman further directed that affected families should receive support, including compensation in cases where children had died, rehabilitation measures for infected children and psychological counselling for both patients and parents.

The matter will return for further proceedings after two weeks, when officials are expected to report progress on medicines, staffing, audit arrangements and family assistance. The outcome could shape how Sindh handles hospital-linked outbreaks, strengthens infection control and restores public confidence in healthcare facilities serving vulnerable communities.