Nagaland: Students sensitised on HIV, TB and blood donation

Dimapur, Feb. 17 (EMN): Commemorating the 75th years of India’s independence celebration, the Dimapur district Aids prevention and control unit (DAPCU), with the support of National AidsControl Organisation (NACO), conducted an awareness campaign at Tetso College on February 17.

An update from the college stated that a team from DAPCU disseminated information regarding HIV/Aids and TB prevention and services, developing an understanding about the infection, to reduce stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/Aids and TB, and also to encourage blood donation among the youth.

It stated that the resource person, Meceivinuo, DPO, DAPCU, highlighted on HIV/Aids, causes, its prevention and emphasised on reducing stigma and discrimination. She also encouraged the students to spread awareness among the masses.

Dr. Benchillo, district tuberculosis officer, spoke on TB, causes, its prevention and cure, while Orenthung Ngullie, DAPCU district supervisor, shared on blood donation and the importance of voluntary blood donation.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Payal Dutta, assistant professor of Commerce and Management.

A total of 50 Red Ribbon Club members attended the programme.

In a related programme, Nagaland State Aids Control Society (NSACS) organised an awareness programme on HIV, TB and blood donation at Model Christian College in Kohima on February 15.

An update from the college stated that Sentimongla Tsudir, district program officer of district Aidsprevention and control unit, Kohima, explained the basics of HIV/Aids, its mode of transmission, preventive measures and the way forward for an HIV positive person.

Speaking on TB Mukh Bharat Abhiyan (TB free India mission), Dr. Akaba Jamir, district TB officer, Kohima, explained the implication of TB and its symptoms, routes of transmission and diagnosis. Dr. Jamir also highlighted the facilities of the national TB elimination programme for TB infected persons.

While encouraging the audience to render support in eliminating TB by 2025, he urged them to continuously extend support to TB infected patients, create awareness and contribute to eliminate stigma and discrimination towards infected patients.

BendangImsong, chairman of Voluntary Blood Donors’ Association, who spoke on blood donation, explained the various procedures of blood donation, benefits of blood donation and eligibility criteria for donating blood. Imsong stated that there is a high demand of blood in Nagaland and added that blood donors play a crucial role in saving several lives.