Hoshiarpur: Accurate information and timely testing are the most crucial keys to preventing and effectively treating HIV/AIDS. Sharing this information, Hoshiarpur Civil Surgeon Dr. Mandeep Kamal stated that many misconceptions and fears regarding HIV still persist in society, causing many people to shy away from getting tested. This hesitation is not only detrimental to the patient's health but can also inadvertently lead to the spread of the infection. He noted that with timely detection and regular Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), patients can lead long, healthy, and normal lives.
Dr. Mandeep Kamal explained that HIV gradually weakens the body's immune system. Often, no symptoms appear during the early stages. However, one should immediately get tested for HIV if symptoms such as persistent fever, frequent infections, unexplained weight loss, constant fatigue, excessive night sweats, prolonged diarrhea, or swollen glands in the neck or armpits occur. He emphasized that HIV cannot be diagnosed based on symptoms alone; therefore, anyone at risk of infection must undergo testing.
He explained that HIV can spread through unprotected sexual contact, transfusion of infected blood, the use of infected needles or syringes, and transmission from an HIV-infected mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Timely testing and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission.
The Civil Surgeon clarified that HIV does not spread through shaking hands, hugging, sitting together, sharing meals or water, using the same toilets or utensils, coughing, sneezing, or mosquito bites. Therefore, discriminating against people living with HIV is wrong. They, too, have the full right to live a dignified life in society.
He stated that an Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) center is successfully operating at the District Hospital, Hoshiarpur, providing free medicines, counseling, regular follow-ups, and other essential health services to people living with HIV. He emphasized that patients must take their medication regularly as advised by doctors and should not discontinue the treatment under any circumstances.
Dr. Mandeep Kamal mentioned that 'Stand-alone ICTC' (Integrated Counseling and Testing Center) units are operational in Dasuya, Mukerian, Tanda, and Mahilpur within the district, offering free, confidential, and voluntary HIV testing and counseling. If an individual tests positive for HIV at these centers, they are referred to the ART center at the District Hospital, Hoshiarpur, for further treatment.
He noted that an F-ICTC (Facility-Integrated ICTC) center is also functioning at the TB Hospital, Hoshiarpur, where TB patients undergo HIV testing. If a TB patient tests positive for HIV, they are immediately referred to the ART center so that treatment for both conditions can commence simultaneously. Currently, there are 12 such patients in the district affected by both TB and HIV who are regularly taking medication for both diseases.
The Civil Surgeon stated that a total of 3,494 HIV patients have been registered in Hoshiarpur district to date. Of these, 2,328 patients are currently receiving regular treatment from the ART center. He remarked that these figures demonstrate that if patients adhere to their treatment, they can lead healthy and quality lives.
He added that the government provides all HIV testing, counseling, and treatment services completely free of cost and with strict confidentiality. People should not delay testing or treatment due to fear or the stigma associated with the condition. Timely testing is not only beneficial for an individual's health but also plays a crucial role in keeping the family and society safe.
In conclusion, Dr. Mandeep Kamal appealed to the people of the district, saying, "Do not hide HIV. Get tested on time, stay committed to treatment, and never discontinue your medication. Embrace accurate information, avoid misconceptions, respect those living with HIV, and let us come together to build an informed, discrimination-free, and healthy society."