The number of HIV positive cases in Ratodero and its surrounding villages soared to 445, with 52 new cases detected on Monday. As many as 11,068 people from the general population have so far been screened, of which 445 have been found to be HIV positive. Out of these 445 cases, 89 are adults and 356 children. On Monday, as many as 1,984 people were screened at the Ratodero Taluka Hospital camp, out of which 52 were found to be infected with the dreaded viral disease. A screening camp was also arranged at Miskhan Brohi village, where 202 people were screened, out of which 48 were males, 31 females and 123 children. Only one case was detected there. Another camp was also established at Tayab village, where 200 people were screened, which included 45 males, 36 females and 119 children. Fortunately, no one was found to be infected there. Meanwhile, the Paeds HIV Ward at the Children Hospital of Chandka Medical College Hospital, Larkana, is expected to be inaugurated by provincial health minister today (Tuesday). The ward consists of three rooms, which have been snatched from the OPD Block. This step will also create a lot of problems for the patients coming to the healthcare facility from eight districts, as they visit the hospital daily to get specialised medical treatment for their kids. It is the only hospital in Larkana division for children, where postgraduate doctors have been working. People from Balochistan, Dadu and other districts also visit the facility for getting treatment. Due to shortage of facilities and growing number of patients, at least three children are accommodated on a single bed.