ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered a nationwide ban on the production and use of substandard syringes as part of efforts to curb the spread of infectious diseases such as AIDS and Hepatitis C.
While chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad to review measures aimed at controlling infectious diseases, the prime minister directed authorities to take strict legal action against individuals, healthcare facilities, and hospitals found using low-quality syringes or showing negligence in preventing their use.
He also instructed officials to establish a committee of medical and public health experts to develop recommendations for controlling infectious diseases. The committee has been asked to consult provincial governments before finalising its proposals.
The prime minister further directed the Ministry of Law to prepare amendments to strengthen the country’s legal and regulatory framework in coordination with relevant institutions.
Calling for a coordinated national strategy, Shehbaz Sharif tasked the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan with formulating long-term policy recommendations, in consultation with the medical equipment industry, to eliminate the risk of disease transmission through unsafe syringes.
He also highlighted the importance of support from international partners, improved standards in medical equipment manufacturing, and enhanced training for healthcare workers to strengthen Pakistan’s disease prevention efforts.
During the meeting, officials from the Special Task Force and the Ministry of National Health Services briefed participants on ongoing measures to control infectious diseases across the country.
The session was attended by Azam Nazeer Tarar, Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Mansoor Awan, Izaskun Gaviria, public health experts, senior officials from the Ministry of National Health Services, DRAP, and other government institutions.
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