AIDS Prevalence Decreases in Himachal Pradesh Due to ICTC Services and Support
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Shimla, September 27: There is good news regarding the deadly disease AIDS in Himachal Pradesh. The services of Integrated Counseling and Testing Centers (ICTCs), patient counseling, and the timely availability of medicines have contributed to a decrease in the prevalence of AIDS.
So far, there are 5,461 HIV-infected individuals in the state. Among them, 2,873 are male, 2,583 are female, and five are transgender individuals. These patients are being monitored at six ART (Antiretroviral Therapy) centers in the state. In addition to this, 56 ICTC centers are operational. The state government also provides financial assistance of INR 1,500 to AIDS patients every month. This information was provided at a workshop held in Shimla by Dr. Lalit Thakur, the State Program Officer of the AIDS Control Society.
Dr. Thakur explained that HIV-infected individuals in the 31-45 age group account for 51%, those in the 16-30 age group are 20.5%, those in the 46-60 age group are 20.9%, those in the 0-15 age group are 5.4%, and those over 60 years of age make up 2.1%. The state aims to make Himachal Pradesh AIDS-free by 2030.
He noted that, compared to other states, Himachal Pradesh’s situation is better. The state has an HIV infection rate of only 0.11%, while the national rate is 0.21%. The mortality rate among AIDS patients in Himachal Pradesh is 0.98% per one lakh population, whereas the national rate is 3.08%.
Dr. Thakur mentioned that it takes several years after HIV infection for AIDS to develop. Most AIDS patients in the state continue to lead normal lives while taking medications. He emphasized that AIDS is not transmitted by living together or by shaking hands; it primarily spreads through unprotected sexual contact, sharing infected needles, and engaging in risky behavior.
He also mentioned that there have been six cases of HIV Act violations in the state so far. He emphasized that for any information related to HIV, one can call the toll-free number 1097 provided by the AIDS Control Society at any time.
Dr. Lalit Thakur explained that the treatment of HIV-infected patients is carried out under the programs of the Himachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society. The state has arrangements for four mobile van therapy centers, providing free treatment facilities to patients. Additionally, the government provides free bus travel to AIDS patients for commuting to and from treatment centers.
