The infection spread out in Larkana last month and affected several hundred children. 56 more cases followed from Ratodero. Combined together, Sindh registered 681 cases and hospitals became living havoc. Whiles these headlines were shocking the headlines, 2000 plus cases were reported from Punjab.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Health Services Dr. Zafar Mirza immediately called International Rapid Response team with experts to handle the situation. A Joint team of World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) is expected to reach Karachi within two days. The team will investigate the causes of a sudden outbreak.
Dr. Mirza explained the most possible cause were either a blood transfusion or usage of undisposed used syringes. Further mysteries are yet to be discovered.
He further told that there were 163,000 patients of HIV/AIDS in the country. However, only approximately 25,000 were registered with national and provincial HIV/AIDS programs, Dr. Mirza said, adding that from the 25,000, about 16,000 came continuously for treatment and took their medicines.
Federal Government has paid quick attention to the issue and is cooperating to support the capacity of the Provincial Government. 50,000 screening kits have been ordered and three treatment centers are being set up in Sindh so that the work could be done in a more authorized manner.
