Business Recorder
A new documentary by the BBC World Service has revealed serious medical malpractice at a government hospital in Punjab, raising fresh concerns over a deadly HIV outbreak among children in Taunsa. Titled “Stolen lives: Who gave our children HIV?,” the investigation by the BBC Eye team links unsafe medical practices at Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) Hospital Taunsa to a surge in infections, with at least 331 children testing positive between November 2024 and October 2025. The outbreak first came to light in early 2025, when doctors at private clinics noticed a growing number of HIV-positive children who had previously received treatment at the THQ hospital. Suspicions quickly centered on unsafe injection practices, with parents alleging repeated use of contaminated syringes. Punjab health authorities acknowledged that over 100 children had been infected and promised a crackdown, suspending the hospital’s Medical Superintendent in March 2025. However, the BBC’s undercover investigation, conducted months later, found that unsafe practices were still ongoing. Covert footage recorded inside the children’s ward showed nurses administering injections through clothing, reusing syringes, and allowing untrained volunteers to inject children using potentially contaminated vials. The investigation also documented poor hygiene, including improper disposal of medical waste and handling of syringes without protective gear. Experts warn such practices significantly increase the risk of transmitting blood-borne diseases. Dr Altaf Ahmed, a leading infectious disease specialist, reviewed the footage and said the likelihood of infection in such conditions was “very high.” The documentary also highlights systemic issues, including staff shortages and lack of medical supplies, forcing some families to purchase their own medicines while hospital staff reuse limited resources. Despite the evidence, hospital officials have denied wrongdoing. Current Medical Superintendent Dr Qasim Buzdar claimed the footage may have been recorded before his tenure or possibly staged. Local authorities said there was no “conclusive epidemiological evidence” linking the hospital to the outbreak. Meanwhile, former Medical Superintendent Dr Tayyab Chandio, who was suspended during the initial crackdown, has since been reappointed at another government facility. Officials say no legal findings have barred him from practice. Beyond the institutional failures, the documentary captures the human toll of the outbreak. Families described losing children and struggling to cope with lifelong illness and social stigma. One such case is 10-year-old Asma, who continues to live with HIV after her younger brother died from the disease. Their family believes both children were infected during treatment at the Taunsa hospital. Health officials say infections are still being detected, with 19 new cases reported in recent months. At least nine children have died so far. The findings have raised urgent questions about accountability and patient safety in public healthcare facilities, with calls growing for an independent inquiry into the outbreak and stricter enforcement of infection control protocols.
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