Government Moves Against Unsafe Medical Practices
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered a complete ban on the manufacturing and use of substandard syringes across Pakistan.
The decision aims to control the spread of infectious diseases, including AIDS and Hepatitis C.
The prime minister issued the directives while chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad on Friday. The meeting reviewed measures being taken to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases in the country.
PM Shehbaz said unsafe syringes pose a serious threat to public health. He directed authorities to take strict legal action against those involved in making, selling, or using poor-quality syringes.
He also ordered action against hospitals and individuals found guilty of criminal negligence in stopping the use of unsafe syringes.
The move comes amid growing concern over infections linked to unsafe injection practices in different parts of Pakistan.
Special Committee to Prepare National Strategy
The prime minister directed the formation of a special committee of experts to deal with infectious diseases.
The committee will consult provincial governments before finalizing its recommendations.
PM Shehbaz said a comprehensive national strategy is needed to address the issue permanently. He stressed that policy decisions must be backed by strong implementation.
The Ministry of Law has been directed to propose necessary amendments to the legal and regulatory framework.
These amendments will be prepared in coordination with relevant institutions.
The prime minister also directed the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan to prepare policy measures in consultation with the medical equipment industry.
The objective is to ensure that unsafe syringes are removed from the healthcare system and cannot return through weak regulation.
Focus on Medical Equipment and Staff Training
Prime Minister Shehbaz also called for special attention to the quality of medical equipment manufacturing.
He said healthcare staff must be properly trained to prevent the spread of infections.
The meeting was briefed by the Special Task Force established on the prime minister’s directives. The Ministry of National Health Services also presented updates on measures taken to control infectious diseases.
The prime minister highlighted the role of international partners in supporting Pakistan’s public health efforts.
The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Law Azam Nazeer Tarar, Minister of State for Health Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Attorney General for Pakistan Mansoor Awan, Global Fund representative Izaskun Gaviria, public health experts, DRAP officials, and senior government representatives.
The government says strict regulation, legal enforcement, safe medical equipment, and trained healthcare staff are essential to protect citizens from preventable infections.
