Jharkhand Family Tests HIV-Positive, Blames Blood Transfusion During C-Section

Authorities are investigating a case involving three members of a Jharkhand family—a woman, her husband, and their elder child—who tested HIV-positive. The family claims that a blood transfusion given to the woman during a C-section at Chaibasa government hospital in 2023 caused the infection. The state Health Secretary said the case has not formally reached him yet, but assured medical treatment and financial help.

The family said the woman delivered her first child in January 2023 and received blood from the Chaibasa Sadar Hospital blood bank. This blood bank serves as the only blood supply facility in the district. In October, the same facility came under scrutiny after the Jharkhand government confirmed that five children with thalassemia had contracted HIV through blood transfusions there.

The woman’s husband said his wife became pregnant again in June last year, just weeks before the hospital detected HIV infections among the five children. During routine tests for her second pregnancy, doctors found her HIV-positive. He later underwent testing and also tested positive. Their second child was born on January 2 in Jamshedpur.

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Parents and Child in Jharkhand Contract HIV, Allegedly Due to C-Section Blood Transfusion

He said their elder child later fell ill and was taken to Chaibasa hospital for treatment. Doctors there confirmed that she too had HIV. The family chose to remain silent due to fear of social stigma and discrimination. They had closely followed reports about the five thalassemia-affected children and the backlash their families faced. He said he decided to speak out only after his elder child’s diagnosis earlier this month.

Health Secretary Ajay Kumar called the incident unfortunate and promised full support. He said the government would explore schemes for treatment, one-time financial assistance, and pension support if eligible. Kumar added that he would verify the details through official channels and speak with hospital officials to ensure the family’s concerns are properly documented and addressed.

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