HIV cases rise sharply in islamabad amid growing health concerns

A recent government report has revealed a worrying rise in HIV cases in Pakistan’s federal capital, Islamabad, with health experts warning of an accelerating public health challenge in the city. According to official data, 498 HIV cases were reported in 2025 alone, while an additional 618 new cases were recorded between January 2025 and March 2026. Authorities say the city is now seeing an average of more than 41 new infections each month, indicating a steady upward trend in transmission.

The data shows that men make up the majority of reported cases, with adult males accounting for around 64 percent of infections. In total, the 618 reported cases include 397 men, 106 women, 93 transgender individuals, and 22 children, highlighting that the virus is affecting diverse segments of the population. Health officials also noted that 120 new cases were reported in the first quarter of 2026 alone, with fluctuations in monthly figures, including a peak of 63 cases in July 2025.

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Experts attribute the rise primarily to high-risk behaviours among young men, particularly unsafe sexual practices linked to drug use. The use of substances such as synthetic drugs has been associated with increased vulnerability to risky behaviour, contributing to the spread of the virus. Public health specialists warn that lack of awareness, social stigma, and limited preventive screening are further compounding the problem.

Estimates suggest that Pakistan has around 350,000 people living with HIV, with many cases remaining undiagnosed. Health authorities stress the need for stronger awareness campaigns, expanded testing facilities, and targeted interventions for high-risk groups to prevent further spread, especially among youth and marginalized communities in urban centres like Islamabad.