ISLAMABAD: Government action against unsafe medical syringes gained momentum on Friday after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered a nationwide ban on the manufacturing and use of substandard syringes to help prevent the spread of infectious diseases, including AIDS and Hepatitis C.
Chairing a high-level review meeting, the prime minister directed authorities to take strict legal action against individuals and hospitals found using substandard syringes or showing criminal negligence in preventing their use.
He also ordered the formation of a committee of health experts to prepare recommendations on controlling infectious diseases. The committee will work with provincial governments to develop practical solutions.
The prime minister instructed the Ministry of Law to prepare amendments to the existing legal and regulatory framework in coordination with relevant institutions.
Calling for a comprehensive national strategy, Shehbaz Sharif said strong implementation is essential for the long-term prevention of infectious diseases. He directed the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan to develop policy measures in consultation with the medical equipment industry to stop infections linked to unsafe syringes.
The prime minister also stressed the importance of support from international partners and called for greater investment in medical equipment manufacturing and training for healthcare workers.
Officials from the Special Task Force and the Ministry of National Health Services briefed the meeting on measures already taken to control the spread of infectious diseases across the country.
The meeting was attended by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Minister of State for Health Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Attorney General Mansoor Awan, Global Fund representative Izaskun Gaviria, public health experts, and senior government officials.
