Training on HIV and AIDS Act held in Zunheboto

DIMAPUR — A one-day training on the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017, was held at the conference hall, District Hospital Zunheboto, on August 7 for doctors, nurses, lab technicians, counsellors, and other hospital staff.

The programme aimed to enhance awareness among healthcare professionals on the legal framework, rights, and responsibilities related to people living with HIV and AIDS, as well as the duties of healthcare providers, stated an update.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. K Akaho Sema, senior specialist, stressed the need for an inclusive, stigma-free healthcare environment and highlighted the dual importance of preventing and controlling HIV and AIDS while safeguarding the rights of both patients and healthcare workers.

The resource person, Easter H Yepthomi, retainer lawyer, Zunheboto District Legal Services Authority, presented key provisions of the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017, which came into force in 2020.

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She emphasised that the Act seeks to prevent and control the spread of HIV and AIDS, protect the human rights of affected individuals, and ensure confidentiality — including restricting disclosure of HIV status strictly between healthcare providers when necessary. She also elaborated on the Act’s legal safeguards for healthcare professionals.

An interactive session followed, allowing participants to seek clarifications and share insights.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Jubit K, district supervisor, DISHA Zunheboto, who acknowledged the contributions of the resource persons, dignitaries, and participants.

The training was organised by the DISHA Unit Zunheboto, in collaboration with Hezukhu Memorial District Hospital Zunheboto and the Zunheboto District Legal Services Authority, with support from the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society and the legal services authority.