KOHIMA, September 6 : In an astounding revelation, Nagaland is said to be No 1 in India in HIV and AIDS prevalence rate among the adults at 0.78% and the general population at 1.29%. A total number of 20138 people were tested HIV positive in 2015-16 with 19308 adults and 830 children.
This was revealed by State Consultant, Legislators’ Forum on AIDS Nagaland (LFA), Dr Vinito L Chishi during the Church Advocacy on HIV & AIDS held at Kohima Bible College today. The programme was organized by concerned Nagaland Christian Revival Church leaders and supported by LFA.
He also informed that Dimapur district has got the highest prevalence rate of HIV with 3.77% followed by Kiphire with 2.98% and Kohima with 2.52%. In a test carried out in April-June 2016 across the state, a total of 448 were tested HIV positive with 212 from Dimapur, 90 from Kohima, 41 from Tuensang and 33 from Mokokchung. Chishi said, HIV and AIDS is a disease transmitted from human to human.
Although Nagaland claims to be a Christian dominated state, Chishi lamented that Nagas are facing HIV epidemic topping the chart in HIV prevalence rate across the country. Stating that the deadly disease today has entered into our churches and homes, Dr Chishi has asserted that Churches must pay attention to this issue through its platform and disseminate factual information to its people.
Also expressing his concerned on the alarming rise of HIV in the state, Dr Chishi maintained that the church can play a crucial role by adopting church-based strategies, adopt certain measures towards controlling the epidemic and also extending support to those living with HIV.
At the end of the day-long session, the members present have resolved to commit its sincerity in combating this war against HIV and AIDS through spirituality – with the Word and the Love of God, moral counselling and also through the facilities provided by the government.
The members have also re-committed to its motto ‘Focus, partner, achieve – an AIDS free generation’ to do its best towards achieving an HIV and AIDS free generation.
Dr Rose Chakhesang, Public Health Consultant (World Bank) also spoke while Rev Dr Shiwoto Assumi, Chairman Core Committee gave an introduction of the programme. The programme was attended by various churches under NCRC.
HIV PREVALENCE RATE (2015-16)
| District | Prevalence Rate |
| Dimapur | 3.77 |
| Kiphire | 2.98 |
| Kohima | 2.52 |
| Tuensang | 1.82 |
| Peren | 0.99 |
| Mokokchung | 0.95 |
|
