An undercover investigation by the BBC has uncovered catastrophic hygiene violations at the THQ Hospital Taunsa, a government facility in Pakistan. Video evidence confirms that medical staff repeatedly reused the same syringes to treat children, leading to a massive outbreak of HIV infections in the region.
Investigation Details
Thirty-two hours of undercover footage obtained by BBC Eye depicts a systemic breakdown of safety protocols. Medical personnel were seen reusing syringes and utilizing the same instruments on multiple patients. Experts explain that this is a direct source of transmission, as the virus remains within the syringe body even if the needle itself is changed. The footage also shows a total disregard for basic hygiene; staff administered injections without gloves and left used needles scattered on workstations.
The investigation established that between November 2024 and October 2025, 331 children in Taunsa were diagnosed with HIV. In more than half of these cases, contaminated needles are considered the primary route of transmission.
Crucially, the data shows that the infections were not passed from mother to child. Out of 97 families tested, the mother was found to be infected in only four cases. This confirms suspicions that the spread of the virus is a direct result of medical procedures performed at the hospital.
Eight-year-old Muhammad Amin has become a tragic symbol of this crisis; he passed away shortly after testing HIV-positive. His sister, Asma, was also later found to be infected. Their family is certain that both children contracted the virus during routine medical treatment.
Hospital Response and Systemic Issues
Despite the video evidence, the hospital administration denies the allegations. Medical Superintendent Dr. Qasim Buzdar questioned the authenticity of the footage, stating that infection control remains their priority.
Although the Punjab government dismissed the hospital’s head in March 2025—after the number of cases surpassed 100—the investigation proves that dangerous practices continued for months afterward.
Experts are warning the international community that similar outbreaks will recur unless there is fundamental reform of the healthcare system and strict enforcement of sanitary regulations.
