Sindh Forms Inquiry Committee to Investigate HIV Cases Linked to SESSI Hospital Screening
The Sindh government has formed a five-member inquiry committee to investigate recently identified HIV-positive cases following a screening campaign conducted near a Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI) hospital in Karachi’s Landhi area.
According to an official notification, the committee has been directed to submit its findings and recommendations within seven days.
Committee to Review Reported Cases
The inquiry committee is headed by Dr. Naila Zaheer and includes:
- Dr. Rizwana Ashraf
- Dr. Rashid Hassan Alvi
- Dr. Tanveer Kadir Khanzada
- Muhammad Tahir
The committee has been tasked with reviewing reported HIV cases, verifying laboratory test results, and examining available medical records.
Scope of the Investigation
According to the notification, the committee will:
- Verify laboratory reports related to the reported cases.
- Examine possible epidemiological links among patients.
- Review infection prevention and control measures.
- Assess injection practices and the use of disposable syringes and needles.
- Review the procurement and availability of medicines and disposable medical supplies.
- Evaluate biomedical waste management procedures and compliance with standard operating procedures.
- Prepare data relating to affected patients and submit recommendations based on its findings.
Authorities have also directed the committee to identify any administrative or institutional issues, where applicable, based on the investigation.
HIV Screening Continues
Officials said HIV screening is being carried out at hospitals operating under the Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI).
According to information shared by SESSI, screening of approximately 2,000 people in and around the Landhi hospital has identified 10 HIV-positive cases so far.
SESSI also reported that screening conducted in and around another hospital in the Valika area identified 120 HIV-positive cases among approximately 10,000 individuals who were tested.
Health authorities have said screening efforts are continuing as part of ongoing public health monitoring.
Calls for Strengthening Public Health Measures
Following reports of the identified cases, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) called for additional public health measures, including expanded screening, strengthened infection prevention protocols, and continued monitoring of healthcare facilities.
The party also urged authorities to investigate the reported cases transparently and take appropriate action based on the inquiry’s findings.
