The fast rise in HIV cases in Islamabad has raised serious concern among health authorities. A recent official report shows that 618 new HIV cases were recorded in the federal capital from January 2025 to March 2026.
The figures suggest that more than 41 people in the city are getting infected each month. This pattern comes after a challenging year in which 498 cases were reported during 2025 alone.
Most of those affected are young men. Adult men make up 64 percent of the total cases. Out of the 618 reported infections, 397 were men, 106 were women, and 93 were transgender individuals. Alarmingly, the report also confirms that 22 children have been infected.
In addition, the first three months of 2026 recorded 120 new cases, showing that the rate of infection continues at a worrying pace.
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Health experts link the spread mainly to substance abuse and risky behavior. In particular, unsafe practices while under the influence of “ice” (crystal methamphetamine) have become a key factor in the transmission of the virus.
As a result, the estimated number of people living with HIV across Pakistan has reached around 350,000, pointing to a growing public health concern nationwide.
Officials stress the need for focused awareness campaigns to control the situation. Since the highest monthly increase reached 63 cases in July 2025, authorities are keeping a close watch on changing social patterns.
Experts are urging people to stay away from risky behavior to limit the spread of the virus. They also highlight the importance of seeking medical advice early to help protect the population of the federal capital.