Four children from same family contract HIV in Karachi

KARACHI: The number of children infected in the HIV outbreak linked to Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital has risen to 81 after a 10-year-old boy tested positive, making all four children of the same family infected with the virus.

The boy’s father, Aftab Khan, said his family from Karachi’s Zia Colony has been devastated after each of his four children was diagnosed with HIV.

Two days earlier, his 9-year-old daughter tested positive, while his 12-year-old and 3-year-old sons had been diagnosed several months ago. The latest result confirmed that all four siblings are now living with the virus.

Khan alleged that his children had visited Valika Hospital only for routine medical treatment and blamed suspected medical negligence for the infections. He said the family has been left traumatized by the diagnoses and called for those responsible to be held accountable.

The father also alleged that hospital officials suspended during the investigation continue to enjoy official facilities, including accommodation, questioning the effectiveness of the disciplinary action.

He further claimed that affected families continue to face difficulties obtaining timely information about test results, treatment schedules and medications, with hospital staff and the relevant health authorities referring them back and forth without clear guidance.

The affected families have urged the Sindh government to appoint a new focal person to coordinate with victims, saying they need a responsible official who can provide accurate information, address their concerns and ensure access to treatment and support. Authorities are continuing to investigate the HIV outbreak at Valika Hospital. Families of the affected children have renewed calls for a transparent investigation, strict action against those found