Jamshedpur. The administration has decided to step up testing and awareness efforts for HIV prevention and early detection in East Singhbhum district. At present, 3,410 people are living with HIV in the district. The administration has directed the health department to make testing and treatment facilities accessible to more people and expand awareness activities at the grassroots level.

A meeting of the District AIDS Control and Prevention Committee reviewed activities related to HIV prevention, testing, treatment, care and social support. It was informed that 7,220 people have undergone HIV testing in the district so far this year. The administration is now focusing on reaching people who may not be able to easily access health centres with testing and counselling services.

The health department and related institutions have been directed to work in coordination. Door-to-door awareness and testing efforts will focus on providing information about HIV prevention, the importance of timely testing and treatment. Connecting people in need with free treatment facilities will also be an important part of the campaign.

The meeting also stressed the need for sensitive and supportive behaviour towards people living with HIV. The administration noted that reducing misconceptions and discrimination in society is also important alongside awareness. People are being encouraged to understand that accurate information, timely testing and treatment play an important role in HIV prevention.

The toll-free 1097 helpline is also available in Jharkhand for information and assistance related to HIV/AIDS.