Cachar Sees Alarming HIV Cases Rise, Second After Kamrup Metro: AIDS Control Officer

By barakbulletin On August 17, 2024 - 1:23 pm

The escalating addiction to intoxicating substances among the youth in Cachar has led to a significant surge in HIV-positive cases within the district, according to Dr Ratna Chakraborty, the District AIDS Control Officer of Cachar. This troubling trend is placing Cachar as the second-highest district in Assam for HIV cases, following Kamrup Metropolitan.

Dr Chakraborty expressed deep concern over the rapid spread of HIV infections, particularly among the younger population. In a recent interview, she highlighted that the use of intravenous drugs (IV drugs) is a primary factor driving this increase. She warned that if immediate action is not taken to curb drug addiction, HIV could become a severe public health crisis not only in Cachar but across the entire state.

“Currently, in 2024, from January to July, over 25 lakh people in India were screened infected with HIV, with 32,825 cases reported in Assam alone. In Cachar, we have identified 643 HIV-positive individuals, making our district second only to Kamrup Metro in terms of HIV burden. The rise in drug abuse, especially IV-drug use, is directly contributing to this alarming situation,” Dr Chakraborty stated.

The proximity of Cachar to high-HIV-prevalence areas like Manipur and Mizoram is also exacerbating the situation. Interactions between these regions are leading to a further rise in HIV cases in Cachar. Dr Chakraborty emphasized the need for widespread screening and prevention measures to control the spread of the virus.

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“Screening is crucial and should be done within three months of potential exposure. We have screening facilities available at all healthcare institutions, including Community Health Centres (CHCs), Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, and tertiary centres like Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH), where tests are conducted free of cost. If someone tests positive, treatment is provided free of charge at SMCH. We also work to ensure that the partners of HIV-positive individuals are informed and protected,” she added.

Dr Chakraborty also raised concerns about the growing trend of tattooing, which, if done with unsterilized needles, could further spread HIV. She urged the public to take necessary precautions and called for community-wide efforts to reduce the viral load and prevent new infections.

The government is closely monitoring the situation and is expected to implement stricter measures to address the dual challenges of drug addiction and HIV in Cachar. Dr Chakraborty’s message is clear: the time to act is now before the situation worsens further.