Port Blair, Nov. 1: A&N AIDS Control Society (ANACS) conducted a mainstreaming training programme on HIV/AIDS for the Trainees of YESHUVA, Institute of Health Science on 31.10.2022 at 11.00 am at Junglighat. A total of 95 participants participated the training programme.

Shri Girish Kumar, AD (SPM), ANACS conducted the training programme. He informed Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the white blood cells called CD4 cells. HIV destroys these CD4 cells, weakening a person’s immunity against opportunistic infections, such as tuberculosis and fungal infections, severe bacterial infections etc.

HIV infection can be diagnosed using simple and affordable rapid diagnostic tests, as well as self-tests. It is important that HIV testing services follow the 5Cs: consent, confidentiality, counselling, correct results and connection with treatment and other services.

Further, he also informed about HIV/AIDS (Prevention & Control) ACT, 2017 to prevent and control the spread of HIV/ AIDS, prohibits discrimination against persons with HIV and AIDS and No person shall be compelled to disclose his HIV status except by an order of court.

Shri S. Senthil Nathan, AD (CST) explained about the HIV infection. People can lead a healthy life for a long time with appropriate medical care. Anti-retroviral therapy (ART) effectively suppresses replication, if taken at the right time. Successful viral suppression restores the immune system and halts onset and progression of disease as well as reduces chances of getting opportunistic infections. Medication thus enhances both quality of life and longevity.

The participants were asked to come forward for ‘Knowing their HIV Status” by voluntarily getting themselves tested which will be kept confidential.