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Zunheboto grapples with high HIV and AIDS prevalence and limited resources
DIMAPUR — A recent testing and screening report has revealed concerning data regarding HIV and AIDS prevalence in Zunheboto district, according to an official.
According to a press release issued on Monday, the District Programme Officer (DPO) of District Integrated Strategy for HIV and AIDS and STD, Hokishe Chophy, has flagged the “concerning statistics” regarding HIV and AIDS in Zunheboto.
“In a recent testing and screening report, the DPO indicated that a total of 3,103 individuals have been screened for HIV and AIDS, which includes 566 pregnant women. And 12 individuals were found to be positive in 2024 financial year. Alarmingly, 442 cases have tested positive since the inception of the ART Centre in 2011 at Zunheboto District.
“The report highlights that among regular clients, 223 are alive and actively receiving treatment; however, 18 clients have lost track of their treatment, and 76 positive individuals have succumbed to the disease,” it stated.
Listing some of the challenges faced by the medical personnel in the district, the DPO stated that Zunheboto doesn’t have a Medical Officer to assist in the OST and ART Centre.
“The remoteness of the area has deterred interested doctors from filling these vacancies, exacerbating the challenges faced by local healthcare services. As per the report, seven ICTC Centres are available in Zunheboto which includes District Hospital, Pughoboto, Aghunato, Suruhuto, Satakha, Akuluto and one mobile ICTC which covers all the locations.
“Despite these difficulties, the team is committed to providing free and cashless counseling, treatment, and medication for those living with HIV and AIDS and those battling drug addiction. Chophy called upon NGOs, churches, and the general public to extend their support to those affected by these issues”, it stated.
He also urged all departments to collaborate in assisting clients, stressing the importance of community involvement in addressing the HIV and AIDS crisis.
“As the district continues to grapple with these healthcare challenges, the need for concerted efforts and resources to support affected individuals has never been more critical,” it asserted.
Also read: Nagaland records highest HIV prevalence among pregnant women