Health experts in Pakistan have raised serious concerns over the growing spread of HIV, warning that the virus is no longer confined to traditionally high-risk groups but is increasingly affecting the general population. According to recent estimates, the number of people living with HIV in Pakistan has reached approximately 370,000, highlighting a significant public health challenge.

Experts emphasize that a large portion of those infected remain unaware of their condition. It is estimated that nearly 79 percent of individuals carrying the virus do not know they are HIV-positive, which increases the risk of unintentional transmission and delays in seeking treatment.

Former Federal Health Minister Dr. Zafar Mirza pointed out that the rising number of HIV cases among children is particularly alarming and reflects systemic failures within the healthcare system. He noted that the spread of HIV into the general population, including children, signals gaps in prevention, awareness, and healthcare delivery.

Medical professionals have identified unsafe medical practices as major contributors to the spread of the virus. Dr. Qaid Saeed highlighted that the use of unsterilized syringes and contaminated blood transfusions are among the leading causes. Similarly, Dr. Rana Jawad Asghar stated that repeated outbreaks in different regions indicate underlying weaknesses in the healthcare infrastructure and infection control systems.

Experts have called for urgent and comprehensive measures to address the situation. These include strict monitoring of blood banks, ensuring proper screening of all donated blood, eliminating the use of unsafe injections, and strengthening infection prevention protocols across healthcare facilities. Without immediate action, they warn, the situation could worsen significantly.

Additional concerns have been raised about the lack of reliable data and resources in certain areas. In Rawalpindi, for instance, there is reportedly no comprehensive database of HIV patients. Moreover, the HIV center established at Benazir Bhutto Hospital is said to be non-functional, raising questions about access to care for affected individuals.

Sources within the health department revealed that no dedicated doctor has been appointed to manage HIV patients at the facility, leaving patients without proper medical support. The absence of operational staff and infrastructure further complicates efforts to diagnose, treat, and monitor cases effectively.

It was also reported that due to technical issues with a data dashboard, updated statistics on HIV patients have not been released. However, past records indicate that 148 HIV cases were reported in Adiala Jail last year, pointing to the presence of the virus in confined and vulnerable populations as well.

Health authorities have assured that updated data will be released soon, but experts stress that data alone is not enough. There is an urgent need for coordinated national efforts, including public awareness campaigns, improved healthcare services, and policy reforms to curb the spread of HIV.

In conclusion, the growing spread of HIV in Pakistan—from high-risk groups to the general population—poses a serious threat to public health. Addressing this challenge will require immediate, sustained, and multi-faceted action to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as to strengthen the overall healthcare system.