404 new cases of AIDS detected in state till Sept
Use of common syringe is becoming a major reason for the spread of HIV among the youth of the state. This year, from January 1 to September 30, a total 404 new cases of AIDS have been detected in the state, which is 50 more than the last year’s count.
Most of the new cases that have been detected resulted due to the usage of syringe for consuming drugs, specially by the youth. At present, there are as many as 5,870 patients in the state who are suffering from HIV.
Rajiv Kumar, Project Director of the Himachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society, said, “There is a need to spread more awareness about the disease in order to control it. Therefore, our focus is to increase awareness among the youth.”
“More emphasis is being put on the youth and women. In 2023, around 5.50 lakh tests were conducted. Under the government’s scheme, every month, an amount of Rs 1,500 is also being given to HIV patients. Besides, free of cost nutrition kit and bus passes are provided to them,” he said.
