Unsafe injections and weak oversight raise HIV concerns in Punjab

ISLAMABAD: Concerns are growing over a possible rise in HIV/AIDS cases in Punjab, with attention focused not only on major cities such as Lahore and Faisalabad but also on underserved areas including Taunsa, where reported infections have alarmed lawmakers.

The issue came under discussion in the Punjab Assembly, where members raised questions about the response of health authorities and their efforts to curb the spread of the virus, particularly in regions where healthcare oversight remains limited.

According to health department figures, Punjab has the highest share of HIV cases in the country. Experts, however, have cautioned that the officially recorded tally may reflect only part of the actual burden, as low testing rates and social stigma continue to obscure the full scale of infections and allow transmission to continue unnoticed.

Unsafe medical practices flagged as key driver

Health experts identified unsafe medical procedures as a major reason behind the increase in cases. They pointed to the repeated use of syringes, inadequate sterilisation at smaller clinics, and unregulated blood transfusions as among the leading causes of infection.

Professionals in the field also warned that the pattern of transmission is no longer confined to groups traditionally considered at higher risk. They said the virus is increasingly affecting the wider population, including a rising number of children.

In urban centres, experts said a combination of dense populations, a large industrial labour force and significant internal migration has created an environment in which the virus can spread more easily. They warned that without prompt containment measures, the problem could worsen further and extend into nearby areas.

Punjab AIDS Control Programme cites treatment network

Punjab AIDS Control Programme Director Dr Naveed Akhtar said the province has stronger capacity to respond, with 46 specialised clinics operating across Punjab. He said six of those facilities are located in Lahore and provide free testing as well as lifelong treatment for patients.

He also said awareness drives are being conducted to promote prevention and encourage early diagnosis.

The discussion in the provincial assembly reflected broader concern over whether existing monitoring and prevention efforts are sufficient, especially in neglected districts where access to regulated healthcare services is weaker. The reported cases in Taunsa have added urgency to those concerns, with lawmakers pressing for more effective action to contain the spread.

Experts have stressed that unless testing improves and unsafe healthcare practices are addressed, the documented figures may continue to understate the true extent of the problem.