Dimapur, August 25: A HIV/AIDS Awareness Programme was held in Dimapur on August 25 under the theme “Awareness Today, Protection for Tomorrow.” The programme was organised by Dimapur 24/7 Foundation in collaboration with the District Integrated Strategy for HIV/AIDS (DISHA), Office of the Chief Medical Officer, Dimapur, with the aim of promoting awareness on HIV prevention, treatment and reducing stigma and discrimination.Orenthung Ngullie, District Programme Officer (DPO), DISHA resources person for today, emphasised the need to address misconceptions and fear surrounding HIV and AIDS.Ngullie said that the way HIV and AIDS have sometimes been portrayed through disturbing images in projectors, pamphlets and booklets may have contributed to stigma and discrimination. He clarified that such perceptions do not reflect the reality of HIV and urged people not to fear or discriminate against those living with the virus.
Explaining the difference between HIV and AIDS, Ngullie said HIV is a virus, while AIDS is the clinical stage or syndrome that can develop when HIV remains untreated. He stressed that treatment plays a crucial role in prevention, explaining that when a person living with HIV is not on treatment, the virus can multiply and increase the risk of transmission.He identified four major routes of HIV transmission: from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding; through infected blood; through contaminated needles and syringes; and through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person, which he identified as the highest concern.
Ngullie further stated that Nagaland records an average of 80 to 90 new HIV infections every month, and questioned how an HIV-free generation can be achieved without immediate and collective action.He stressed that HIV prevention is not solely the responsibility of the medical department or NGOs, but requires equal responsibility from the wider community.He also urged people to follow the ABC approach—A: Abstain from sex before marriage; B: Be faithful to your partner; and C: Correct and consistent use of condoms.
Addressing common misconceptions, Ngullie clarified that HIV does not spread through hugging, sleeping together, sharing utensils or mosquito bites. He called for greater awareness, responsible behaviour and compassion towards people living with HIV, while stressing the importance of testing, treatment and prevention.The programme also included a welcome address, felicitation, question-and-answer session, a short speech and a vote of thanks, with participation from members of Dimapur 24/7, DISHA and the local community.
