What is the new hepatitis C initiative?
The federal health ministry has launched a country‑wide campaign that will offer free hepatitis C testing, diagnosis and antiviral treatment to every Pakistani aged 12 years and older, covering an estimated 160 million people. Services will be provided through government hospitals, mobile testing units and designated health centres across all provinces.
Why is the drive being rolled out now?
Pakistan bears one of the world’s highest hepatitis C burdens, with prevalence rates hovering around 6 % of the population and many cases remaining undetected. By identifying infections early and supplying the latest direct‑acting antivirals at no cost, the programme aims to cut transmission, lower liver‑disease complications and help the country meet the World Health Organization’s 2030 elimination targets.
Who stands to benefit most from the screening?
The effort targets both urban slums and remote rural districts, focusing on high‑risk groups such as people who inject drugs, those with a history of blood transfusion, and residents of provinces like Punjab and Sindh where infection rates are historically higher. Free access eliminates the financial barrier that has kept millions from seeking care.
What are the next steps for implementation?
The campaign will run throughout 2026, beginning with intensive outreach in hotspots identified by recent epidemiological surveys. Mobile clinics will travel to schools, workplaces and community centres, while a centralized online portal will allow citizens to locate nearby testing sites and book appointments. Health officials have pledged continuous monitoring and quarterly public reports to track progress and adjust resources as needed.