Key Takeaways
- The number of HIV-positive children in Pakistan has reached 7,500.
- Sindh is the province with the highest number of affected children.
- Authorities are providing antiretroviral therapy through 99 treatment centers.
The number of children living with HIV in Pakistan has surged to around 7,500, according to recent data. This figure represents approximately 12.1% of the total 62,000 people receiving HIV treatment nationwide.
Sindh province stands out as the epicenter of this crisis, with nearly 4,200 children registered for treatment in recent years. The province also records the highest number of new infections among children, with an average of around 120 diagnoses per month during 2026.
Punjab follows Sindh with a significant number of HIV-positive children, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan also report cases. Islamabad Capital Territory, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan have seen isolated instances as well.
Health experts emphasize the critical need for enhanced nutritional support and medical care for these children, who often face additional health challenges such as malnutrition, poor growth, recurring infections, and complications related to HIV treatment.
To address this growing burden, authorities are providing antiretroviral therapy through 99 dedicated treatment centers across Pakistan. These centers aim to ensure that affected children receive the necessary medical support and care.
The rising number of pediatric HIV cases has raised concerns about the health and well-being of these children, many of whom require specialized attention due to their unique needs during periods of illness or complications from treatment.
Health professionals stress the importance of early diagnosis and continuous monitoring to manage the condition effectively. They also highlight the need for community awareness programs to prevent further spread among vulnerable populations.
