Pakistan, March 29 -- Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has taken serious notice of the reported spread of AIDS in Taunsa, directing authorities to identify both the causes of the outbreak and those responsible for any negligence.

Chairing a special meeting on the issue on Friday, the Chief Minister instructed the formation of a joint mission comprising UNICEF, WHO, and the Punjab Health Department. The mission will investigate the history of affected children from April 7 to 14 and conduct household screenings in the affected areas.

"The joint mission will present recommendations for the prevention and control of AIDS," she stated, emphasizing the need for urgent action.

To protect at-risk populations, she ordered the formulat...