Rising HIV cases raise concerns at PIMS

Over 600 cases registered since October 2025; only 210 patients belong to Islamabad

ISLAMABAD:

Medical experts at the HIV Centre of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMC) have expressed concern over a rise in patient numbers, noting that the presence of HIV cases among children is particularly alarming.

They warn that concealment of the disease and failure to undergo screening pose serious risks, with a higher incidence currently being detected among men.

Dr Zubair Abdullah, Programme Manager of the AIDS Control Programme, said that the apparent increase in cases at the PIMS HIV Centre is largely due to more people coming forward for screening.

He emphasised the urgent need for public awareness to prevent HIV, adding that expanded screening across facilities is a positive development.

A similar rise in testing has been observed at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences and Polyclinic Hospital Islamabad, contributing to higher reported figures.

According to details released by the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, a total of 189 individuals have been registered as HIV-positive since October 2025.

The highest monthly figure was recorded in March 2026, with 40 cases, while January 2026 saw 41 cases. In the first 20 days of April, 11 new cases were reported.

Male patients outnumber females, with cases also identified among transgender individuals, while the detection of HIV among children remains a cause for concern.

The Common Management Unit (CMU) for AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria under the Ministry clarified that these figures represent the cumulative number of new patients presenting at Islamabad's healthcare facilities over a 15-month period, and should not be interpreted as evidence of a new outbreak or sudden surge.

Monthly data indicate that case registrations have remained within a normal range, with only minor fluctuations, which are considered routine.

Officials attribute these trends to improved awareness, better access to testing and treatment, and an increasing willingness among individuals to seek medical care.

They stress that such developments do not in themselves signal an epidemic situation. Both the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences and Polyclinic Hospital in Islamabad are among the country's major public hospitals, catering not only to residents of Islamabad but also to patients from across the country.