Heat turns up over Valika HIV outbreak

SESSI commissioner issues final show-cause notices to 37

KARACHI:

The Sindh Employees' Social Security Institution (SESSI) has issued final show-cause notices to 37 officials and staff members over the HIV outbreak at the Kulsoom Bai Valika Social Security Hospital, as authorities move to fix responsibility in the case.

The action follows findings of a comprehensive inquiry committee, with notices served to both current and former officials, including doctors, nurses and administrative staff.

SESSI Commissioner Hadi Bux Kalhoro said the officials have been charged with serious negligence, dereliction of duty and failure to ensure effective oversight.

Those issued notices include 10 staff nurses, seven nurse aides, five lady resident medical officers, two consultant paediatricians, two audit officers and two former deputy medical superintendents.

Former senior officials, including the medical superintendent and medical supervisor, as well as a matron, deputy medical officer and lady medical officer, are also among those named.

The commissioner said the accused have been given 14 days to submit written replies and will be provided an opportunity for personal hearings. He warned that failure to respond within the stipulated period would result in ex parte proceedings.

Officials said further action would be determined in accordance with rules after reviewing the responses and completing hearings.

The HIV outbreak at the hospital, which affected multiple patients including children, has raised serious concerns about infection control protocols, patient screening and oversight within public healthcare facilities in Karachi. The incident has also highlighted the need for timely diagnosis, sustained treatment and broader medical and social support for affected families.