By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: The number of children living with HIV in Pakistan has reached around 7,500, according to figures from the federal Ministry of Health, highlighting growing concerns over the nutritional and medical needs of affected children.
The ministry’s data shows that children account for around 12 per cent of approximately 62,000 HIV patients currently receiving treatment in the country.
Sindh has emerged as the province with the highest number of registered children living with HIV, with around 4,200 cases recorded, according to the available figures.
In response to the nutritional needs of affected children, the federal government has sought support from UNICEF, the World Food Programme, the World Health Organisation and Nutrition International.
Officials said a plan was being developed to provide specialised nutritional supplements to children living with HIV, particularly those suffering from severe malnutrition.
Under the proposed support programme, children facing serious nutritional deficiencies would receive specialised food and continued medical monitoring. Parents and caregivers would also be provided with guidance on meeting the nutritional requirements of children living with HIV.
Experts said children living with HIV may require 10 to 20 per cent more energy and protein than other children, depending on their health and nutritional condition.
They stressed that addressing malnutrition among children living with HIV could improve their overall health and contribute to better treatment outcomes.
The figures have also highlighted the need for stronger coordination between healthcare and nutrition programmes, particularly in areas where the number of affected children is high.
Health authorities and international partners are expected to focus on ensuring that vulnerable children receive timely medical care, adequate nutrition and continued monitoring.
The situation in Sindh, where around 4,200 children have been registered, underlines the importance of targeted interventions and greater awareness among families and caregivers to ensure children receive appropriate treatment and nutritional support.
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