HIV cases soar to 32,287 in Mizoram

Mizoram is currently grappling with a rise in the prevalence of Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Reportedly, the North-Eastern state is has reported the highest HIV prevalence rate in India at 2.73 percent, significantly surpassing the national average of 0.2 percent.

On Monday, State Health Minister Lalrinpuii expressed concern over the situation and urged lawmakers to take stronger measures to combat the epidemic. She also necessitated urgent measures to tackle the incidences of HIV.

During a meeting of the Mizoram Legislative Forum on AIDS, held at the I&PR conference hall in Aizawl, Mizoram state AIDS Control Society (MSACS) Project Director Dr. Jane R. Ralte gave a comprehensive update on the state’s HIV situation.

However, he also maintained that the state has started to see some encouraging trends, with a decrease in new infections and a notable drop in HIV-related deaths.

Meanwhile, the state health minister maintained that regular blood testing and adherence to ART medication is important.

Moreover, she also emphasised on the efficient use of drop-in centres to provide support to those living with HIV.

The NorthEast Now report also highlighted that the state legislators agreed to allocate Rs 50,000 each from their MLA funds for 2024-25. These funds will be directed to MSACS to ensure uninterrupted access to ART treatment for HIV-positive individuals.

On Tuesday, Health Ministry issued a statement highlighting the introduction of HIV self-testing (HIVST) has emerged as a revolutionary approach, offering a more private, convenient, and effective means of diagnosis.