HIV-AIDS cases on the rise in Assam, drug injections identified as main cause

Guwahati: The state of Assam has witnessed a concerning increase in the number of HIV-AIDS cases, with drug injections being identified as the primary cause behind this alarming trend. In a recent report, Health Minister Keshab Mahanta shed light on the situation, highlighting the efforts being made by the state government and NGOs to support those diagnosed with HIV.

The report, however, maintains confidentiality by not disclosing the identities or other personal details of the patients, ensuring their privacy is protected.

Drug addiction and peddling have emerged as significant contributing factors to the spike in infections. Disturbingly, around 50% of drug peddlers in the state have also been found to be positive for HIV, underscoring the urgent need to address this issue.

During the Question Hour in the state assembly, MLA Sibamoni Bora of the Congress raised concerns about the inadequate awareness campaigns surrounding HIV since the outbreak of COVID-19. The data between 2022 and 2023 reveals a stark rise in HIV-AIDS cases, with 31,729 cases detected and 89,84,519 tests conducted. By December 2023, out of 9,90,372 tests, 5,791 cases were found to be positive, indicating a definite increase in infections.

The Health Minister emphasised the state government’s collaboration with NGOs, particularly in providing care to infected individuals and raising awareness among vulnerable populations. However, he acknowledged the need to maintain confidentiality when dealing with HIV-AIDS cases, refraining from sharing specific details of the work being done.

Mahanta stressed that transmission of the virus through injecting drugs currently accounts for the highest number of new cases. In response to this, the state government has launched a drive against illegal drugs, recognising the importance of addressing this issue to effectively combat the spread of HIV.

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