Over the last two years, Uttar Pradesh has experienced a consistent HIV surge in infection cases, a trend attributed to the state’s intensified testing efforts. As of May 2023, the number of individuals receiving medication from Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) centers has risen to 1,08,155, compared to 96,205 cases in 2022 and 90,857 in 2021.
Dr. Arun Kumar Singhal, the joint director of the U.P. State AIDS Control Society (UPSACS), emphasized the crucial role of increased testing in identifying new cases annually. The state records an estimated 3,600-4,200 deaths among HIV-positive individuals each year. According to the National AIDS Control Society, it is estimated that Uttar Pradesh is home to 1.93 lakh people living with HIV infection.
With the prime focus on detecting new cases and the HIV surge, Uttar Pradesh has implemented targeted intervention (TI) programs designed specifically for this purpose, as stated by Dr. Singhal. Nevertheless, officials caution that the data compiled by the National AIDS Control Society may not be entirely accurate, as individuals from other states may also receive medication from ART centers in Uttar Pradesh, and vice versa.
Vimlesh Kumar of the Uttar Pradesh Welfare for People Living with HIV/AIDS (UPNP PLUS), an advocacy group operating in the state, attributes the increase in new cases to migration, particularly among vulnerable groups such as female sex workers, men having intercourse with other men, and intravenous drug users.
The intensified targeted intervention programs and enhanced testing efforts have resulted in the identification of more positive cases, ensuring timely medication for affected individuals.
How does HIV spread?
HIV primarily spreads through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person, infected blood transfusions, sharing of contaminated needles or syringes, and from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding. The virus is highly concentrated in blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. However, it does not transmit through casual social interactions like handshakes or sharing utensils.