HIV cases rise rapidly in Islamabad report

ISLAMABAD: (Web Desk) – Islamabad is witnessing a concerning rise in HIV cases, according to recent official data. Health authorities report that the infection rate has been steadily increasing across the federal capital.

In 2025 alone, 498 HIV cases were recorded, while an additional 618 new infections were reported between January 2025 and March 2026. This indicates a persistent upward trend in the spread of the virus.

Statistics reveal that, on average, more than 41 individuals were diagnosed with HIV each month in Islamabad. A significant proportion of those affected are young men, accounting for about 64 percent of total cases.

Out of the 618 recently reported cases, 397 were men, 106 women, 93 transgender individuals, and 22 children. These figures highlight the widespread impact of the disease across different segments of society.

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The report further notes that 120 cases were registered in the first quarter of 2026. The highest monthly spike occurred in July 2025 with 63 cases, while June and December recorded the lowest numbers at 31 cases each.

Medical experts attribute the rising numbers primarily to unsafe sexual practices, particularly among young men. Risky behavior linked to drug use, especially under the influence of substances like methamphetamine (“ice”), has been identified as a major contributing factor.

Nationwide, the estimated number of people living with HIV in Pakistan stands at around 350,000, raising concerns about public health awareness and prevention efforts.