Civil Surgeons Submit Blood Bank Audit Reports Amid HIV Scandal

Civil surgeons across 24 districts in Jharkhand have submitted their audit reports concerning local blood banks as of March 16, 2024. This action follows a directive from the state health department in response to serious allegations regarding HIV infections resulting from recent blood transfusions at the Chaibasa sadar hospital. Five children suffering from thalassemia were reportedly infected with the virus, prompting urgent scrutiny of blood bank operations throughout the region.

Officials at the state health department have not disclosed details regarding the audit findings. Additional Chief Secretary for Health, Ajoy Kumar Singh, initiated the audits after the alarming incidents at the Chaibasa hospital. During a recent statement, Health Minister Irfan Ansari emphasized the need for a thorough and unbiased investigation into the matter. “Initial indications suggest a political conspiracy, which is being thoroughly investigated. Strict action will be taken against those found guilty,” Ansari remarked. He warned that preliminary measures would not suffice, and anyone involved in conspiracy would face severe repercussions.

As the audits were conducted, Singh reported that as of Saturday evening, the majority of reports were received and were in the process of being compiled. “By the end of the day, we completed the process for 48 blood banks, and we will continue compiling data on Sunday,” he stated. The completion of these reports will enable the state to gain a clearer picture of the blood banking situation and address any deficiencies.

In Garhwa, Dr John F Kennedy, the civil surgeon, noted that his department submitted its report the previous day. Garhwa has three blood banks, including one state-run facility at the sadar hospital and two private establishments. “During our inspection, two blood banks met standards, while one exhibited several deficiencies,” Dr Kennedy explained. He highlighted that the state-run blood bank’s license had not been renewed since 2023 due to issues such as the lack of an ELISA machine and a pathologist. Although the machine has been acquired, the absence of a qualified pathologist remains a concern.

In Lohardaga, civil surgeon Dr Raju Kacchap confirmed that the audit report for the district’s sole blood bank at the sadar hospital was submitted on March 14. While the blood bank’s license had yet to be renewed, Kacchap mentioned that an application for renewal was submitted concurrently with the report.

On Saturday, Minister Ansari conducted an inspection of the blood bank at RIMS, the largest healthcare facility in the state. His visit included an assessment of available medications, cleanliness, and overall patient care, demonstrating the government’s commitment to addressing public health concerns.

The submission of these audit reports marks a significant step in ensuring transparency and accountability in the state’s blood transfusion services. As investigations continue, the health department aims to restore public confidence in the safety of blood banking practices across Jharkhand.