KARACHI: As dengue and malaria cases continue to rise across Sindh, the Sindh Healthcare Commission (SHCC) has announced a significant reduction in the prices of key diagnostic tests to ensure affordability and early detection for the public.
According to a public notice issued by SHCC, the revised rates will remain in effect from October 21 to December 31, 2025, under the powers conferred by the Sindh Healthcare Commission Act 2013.
Under the new schedule, ICT Malaria test rates have been reduced from up to Rs. 3,050 to Rs. 600, Dengue NS1 Antigen (ICT/ELISA) from up to Rs. 4,550 to Rs. 1,100, Dengue IgM Combo from up to Rs. 4,150 to Rs. 1,500, and CBC with Smear (including follow-up CBC for dengue cases) from up to Rs. 1,250 to Rs. 500.
The SHCC stated that the decision has been taken in the larger public interest amid an alarming surge in dengue and malaria infections across the province. The move is aimed at making essential diagnostic tests accessible to citizens, especially low-income patients who are struggling to afford high laboratory costs.
Several leading laboratories have agreed to offer these discounted rates, including Aga Khan University Hospital, Dr. Essa Laboratory & Diagnostic Centers, Chughtai Laboratory, Rahila Research & Reference Laboratory, Husaini Blood Bank & Laboratory, JSMU Diagnostic Laboratory, Tabba Heart Institute, Sindlab Diagnostics (Karachi only), Advanced Lab, and Citilab Karachi.
The SHCC has also advised doctors to confirm dengue or malaria status before prescribing any antibiotics to prevent misuse of medications.
Public health experts have welcomed this timely intervention, saying that the price reduction will encourage more citizens to get tested promptly — a critical step in controlling the spread of vector-borne diseases during the peak season.
