Pakistan HIV Outbreak Linked to Unsafe Medical Practices

In the Pakistani town of Taunsa, at least 331 children contracted HIV between November 2024 and October 2025, according to a BBC investigation. The findings point to unsafe medical practices, including the repeated use of syringes and the frequent administration of unnecessary injections.

In several cases, the children’s mothers tested negative for HIV, indicating that mother-to-child transmission was not the cause. According to a doctor who raised the alarm, a number of affected children had been treated at a local hospital where contamination may have occurred.

Undercover footage obtained by the BBC showed syringes being reused for multi-dose medication and staff failing to follow basic hygiene procedures, including working without gloves. Experts have warned that such practices significantly increase the risk of transmission.

Local authorities suspended the hospital’s director last March. However, according to the broadcaster, unsafe practices have continued.

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