SESSI Expands HIV Screening, Reviews Patient Records Amid Infection Probe -

The Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI) has expanded HIV screening across all its hospitals as part of an investigation into newly detected cases and efforts to determine whether any infections may be linked to medical treatment.

In a statement issued on Saturday, SESSI Commissioner Hadi Bakhsh Kalhoro said HIV screening is now underway at all SESSI healthcare facilities. Around Landhi Hospital, 10 people tested positive out of 2,000 individuals screened, while 120 children and adults were found to be HIV-positive among 10,000 people tested in the vicinity of Valika Hospital.

Kalhoro said the screening campaign has also been extended to government hospitals across Sindh to improve early detection and strengthen disease surveillance. He added that SESSI is maintaining detailed records of HIV-positive children and their family members to ensure they receive timely treatment, follow-up care, and welfare support.

As part of the investigation, authorities are reviewing the records of all outpatients and admitted patients treated at SESSI hospitals since January 2025. If any patient from that period is confirmed to be HIV-positive, an inquiry will be launched to determine the possible source of infection and assess whether any negligence or malpractice was involved.

The commissioner said SESSI hospitals and dispensaries continue to provide routine healthcare services while reinforcing infection-control measures and expanding HIV screening to protect public health. – ERMD