HIV awareness must continue despite decline in infections: DC

Deputy Commissioner of Dharwad Snehal R. has said that the decline in HIV prevalence in Dharwad district is an encouraging sign, but sustained awareness programmes are essential to prevent further transmission and effectively control the infection.

She was speaking after flagging off a marathon organised by the Health and Family Welfare Department as part of the district-level youth festival and HIV/AIDS prevention awareness campaign in Dharwad on Friday.

Ms. Snehal called upon young people, particularly those aged between 15 and 25 years, to equip themselves with accurate information on HIV/AIDS and create awareness among their friends, classmates and family members. She said one-day events and marathons alone would not be sufficient and stressed the need for continued discussions and awareness activities on modes of transmission, preventive measures and treatment.

She urged people diagnosed with HIV not to discontinue treatment due to fear of social stigma or discrimination. They should follow medical advice and continue antiretroviral therapy (ART) regularly, as it helps control the virus and preserve immune function, she said. She also called upon society to treat people living with HIV with dignity and extend support to them.

Ms. Snehal stressed the importance of achieving the three targets under the 95-95-95 strategy for HIV control: identifying 95% of people living with HIV, providing treatment to 95% of those diagnosed, and achieving viral suppression in 95% of those receiving treatment.

She also highlighted the role of the media in dispelling misconceptions about HIV, encouraging people to undergo testing when required, and promoting timely and continuous treatment.

District Health and Family Welfare Officer Parashuram F.K. spoke about the campaign. District Health Education Officer B.R. Patrot coordinated the programme.

Marathon winners

The marathon began at the District Health and Family Welfare Officer’s office and passed through Dasanakoppa Circle, Sarvamangala Hospital, Saptapur Bavi and KCD Circle before returning to the starting point.

Balu Hegri won the men’s category, while Deeksha H.V. secured first place in the women’s category. Suresh Yakkundi and Manikantha Surapur finished second and third, respectively, in the men’s category. Sanjana Yaragatti and Sahana Hiregoudar secured second and third places, respectively, in the women’s category.

The winners received cash prizes. The first- and second-place finishers in both categories will represent the district at the State-level marathon to be held in Davanagere on October 17.

Officials and staff of the Health and Family Welfare Department and the District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit participated in the programme.