ISLAMABAD
Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif while directing to take country wide stern and effective steps to prevent spread of HIV and Hepatitis C. and communicable diseases has ordered to impose complete ban on the manufacturing and use of substandard syringes, initiate action against those involved in use of sub standard syringes besides evolving comprehensive strategy at national level. A review meeting was held under PM Shehbaz Sharif with reference to prevention of spread of HIV and Hepatitis C. and communicable diseases.
Special Task Force and ministry of national health gave detailed briefing to PM on the steps taken so far for prevention of spread of and Hepatitis C and AIDS.
PM instructed that legal action be taken against individuals and hospitals involved in the use of unauthorized syringes or found guilty of criminal negligence in preventing their use.
PM directed the formation of a special committee of experts to recommend measures for controlling communicable diseases. He emphasized that the committee must ensure consultation with the provinces while formulating its recommendations. The Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Law to work with relevant departments to propose necessary amendments to the legal and regulatory framework. He stressed that the development and effective implementation of a comprehensive national strategy is the key to addressing this challenge.
PM directed the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to consult with the industry manufacturing medical devices and propose policy measures to permanently prevent the spread of infectious diseases through syringes.
The meeting was attended by law minister Azam Nazir Tarar, state minister for health Dr Mukhtar Bharat, Attorney General of Pakistan Mansoor Awan experts of public health, representatives of DRAPP and ministry of national health and senior officials.
