Report card on HIV

After decades of having undertaken various programmes aimed at tackling HIV, Nagaland’s prevalence rate of 1.61% poses grave concern, as the statistic reveals the state as the second highest in HIV prevalence in India, only surpassed by Mizoram’s 2.34%. Prevalence rate is the percentage of people in a specific population who are infected with HIV at a specific time. It is calculated as the number of people living with HIV divided by the total population, multiplied by 100 to get a percentage. This statistic, highlighted in the recent reports referenced by deputy director STI and Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) nodal officer Dr. Zaiwang, underscores an urgent public health challenge that demands immediate and sustained action. The testing conducted for nine targeted intervention (TI) groups reveals the extensive reach of the epidemic. Each of these groups faces unique vulnerabilities that exacerbate their risk of HIV infection. Also, the prevalence rate of HIV among pregnant women in Nagaland is particularly alarming, indicating a significant rate of mother-to-child transmission. Also according to the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) Sankalak Report, within the population of 1,77,087 in Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland, have an estimated 9,662 people living with HIV (PLHIV). Of these, only 3,034 are currently on antiretroviral therapy (ART) as of March 2024. This leaves a concerning 6,628 individuals without the critical treatment they need. The gap in ART coverage is not merely a number- it represents a failing in the health system’s ability to reach and support those most in need. ART is vital for managing HIV, reducing viral load, and preventing transmission. The fact that a significant portion of the PLHIV population in these districts is not accessing ART highlights inadequate healthcare delivery and community outreach. Low ART uptake among PLHIVs in Nagaland is attributed to a pervasive stigma and discrimination against those living with HIV. Addressing the HIV epidemic in Nagaland requires a multi-faceted approach: the need for enhancing awareness and education where public health campaigns to intensify educating the population about HIV transmission, prevention, and the importance of ART. This includes targeted efforts towards high-risk groups and the general population. Reducing Stigma and Discrimination: Initiatives to combat the stigma associated with HIV must be prioritized. This involves community engagement, sensitization programs, and robust legal frameworks to protect the rights of PLHIVs. The statistic is a reminder on the need to improve Accessibility to Healthcare and efforts to enhance the healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that ART and other necessary medical services are accessible to all, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas. The other urgent needs include-strengthening support systems, counselling services, and financial assistance programs. In the light of the above, the HIV crisis in Nagaland is a pressing public health issue that requires immediate attention and sustained effort. By addressing the barriers to treatment and enhancing support systems, it is possible to curb the spread of HIV and improve the lives of those affected. It is a collective responsibility to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against HIV/AIDS.As stated by Dr.Zaiwang, the statistics and stories behind them call for action, not just reflection. There is no option but to act now in order to turn the tide against spread of HIV and pave the way for a healthier future for Nagaland and its people.