SHILLONG, DEC 1: Meghalaya health minister AL Hek said there is an estimated of 460 new HIV infections annually in the state and even as he underscored the need of prevention.
“The new HIV infections are mostly found in the age group of 15 years and above,” Hek said while addressing the World AIDS day celebration on Monday.
Hek pointed out that Meghalaya has 0.13 per cent adult (15-49 years) HIV prevalence with an estimate number of 2381 HIV infections in the state, this includes adult and children. He also informed, “Currently as per the October report 2014, the number of PLHIV registered at ART Centre Plus is 1541 and cumulative number alive and on ART is 588.”
Hek said it is of paramount importance that new HIV infection be prevented. He said, “We need to achieve a transition that will see fewer people being infected rather than newly place on treatment.” According to him, by doing so, we will require decisive action guided by a ground-breaking vision of zero new HIV infection, zero discrimination and zero AIDS related death.
“We believe that by taking the right decision we can achieve universal access to HIV prevention treatment, care and support,” Hek said.
Hek said today is an important day as it reminds each and everyone about the importance of coming together and fighting to contain the deadly disease which is a global concern. On December 1, getting to Zero is a commitment to keep fighting for the 34 millions who live everyday with HIV/AIDS and getting to Zero will be expressed worldwide until 2015.
Earlier in the day, Hek flagged off the Zindagi Zindabad Campaign to spread awareness on HIV/AIDS throughout the state and lighted a candle to mark the celebration of the World AIDS Day.
A rock show by the winners of the Meghalaya Icon 5 “Dymbur” was also seen in the later part of the programme.- By Our Reporter
Let’s join our hands to fight this dreadful disease and make our state or world HIV free.HIv is really cost our lives , claiming millions of lives every year. It does really matter for us to drive away the disease which is a life threatening. Moreover it’s important for us to give love, protection , care and hope and some sort of help for people living with HIV/ aids. We can’t simply isolate the victims from their normal social life. Giving the right kind of information to young boys and gals is the first and the foremost thing .