ISLAMABAD: In a bid to effectively address the rising HIV cases, the government on Thursday announced formation of a Technical Working Group (TWG), led by Director General of Health, with representation from provincial authorities and UN partner agencies.
A high-level meeting was held at the Ministry of National Health Services to discuss the country’s worsening Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) trends, following reports that Pakistan is on track to report over 10,000 new cases in 2025, already surpassing last year’s total in just the first nine months.
Chaired by the Additional Secretary of the Ministry, the meeting was attended by representatives from UNAIDS, WHO, UNICEF, UNDP, civil society organizations (APLHIV & Nai Zindagi), and coordinated by the Common Management Unit (CMU).
According to health officials, Pakistan has seen more than 10,000 new HIV cases in 2025, with projections suggesting the total may exceed 14,000 by year-end.
This would surpass last year’s tally of 13,001 cases. Officials attribute the rise to incidental screenings during medical procedures, emergency treatments, and visa requirements, making 2025 the fastest year for HIV escalation in the country’s history.
Health experts noted that the most significant increase is among men who have sex with men, driven by methamphetamine-assisted sexual activity that leads to unprotected encounters.
They also highlighted that transgender individuals and female sex workers, many unaware of their HIV status, are increasingly at risk.
Another major concern is the rising number of infections among deported Pakistani workers, with some none-governmental organizations (NGOs) opposing screening due to human rights concerns, thus creating gaps in public health monitoring.
The meeting participants agreed to mobilize all available resources to curb the spread of HIV, with a focus on coordinated action and increased involvement from community organizations.
They emphasized the need for a targeted HIV response strategy, better integration of services, and enhanced provincial participation and funding.
The additional secretary reaffirmed that HIV prevention and control are top national priorities, with the government committed to a data-driven approach.
The Director General of Health stressed the importance of strengthening provincial leadership and ownership, while the Deputy National Coordinator for HIV-CMU shared updated data and announced the launch of the Opioid Agonist Maintenance Therapy (OAMT) programme in December.
Key priorities include integrating HIV testing within Hepatitis and mother and child health (MCH) services, strengthening blood safety, and using media responsibly to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
The additional secretary concluded by reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to a coordinated and sustainable HIV response, emphasizing that the success of the effort depends on collective action and strong leadership at all levels.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025