Multiple events mark World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day events, focusing on community involvement in combating HIV/AIDS was held at Salem District Collectorate on Tuesday. The event included a declaration, awareness rally, human chain, and signature drive which were innaugurated by Salem Collector S. Karmegam.

Official statistics from December 2022 to November 2023 showed 2,19,281 individuals undergoing HIV testing and counseling, with 69,078 individuals undergone testing. The Thai-Sei (mother and child) Mewa program prioritized pregnant women and provided new combination drug treatment. 9,841 individuals received free anti-retroviral compound medicine treatments, and 451 students from HIV-affected families received education through private colleges. The district also collected 27,361 units of blood via government blood banks. The Godavari Art Group conducted a targeted awareness campaign from 21.11.2023 to 30.11.2023, employing folk media like Karakatam, Mayilatam, and Wailatam across rural and urban areas.

Earlier in the day, Salem District Collectorate bore witness to enthusiastic participation from college students in awareness initiatives, including a human chain, signature movement, pledge, and auto awareness procession.

The event saw the presence and participation of Dr.S. Soundammal, Deputy Director Medical Services (Family Health) Dr. M. Valarmathi, Deputy Director (Tuberculosis Division) Dr. S. Ganapathi, City Health  Officer Dr. N.Yoganand, and District AIDS Prevention and Control Program Manager (P) Dr.L.Arunachalam, along with medical professionals, officers from the Tamil Nadu State AIDS Control Society, and district employees.