HIV/AIDS investigation before marriage in this state? Health Minister said- ‘Consideration’

Shillong: The Meghalaya government is thinking of bringing a new law soon, under which it will be mandatory to conduct HIV/AIDS test before marriage. Health Minister Amparin Lyngdoh said on Friday that HIV/AIDS cases are increasing in the state, due to which this step is being considered. Please tell that the cases of HIV/AIDS in Meghalaya are at number six in the country. The risk of this disease is highest in the northeastern states. The Health Minister said, ‘If the test in Goa can be mandatory, then why not such a law in Meghalaya? This will benefit the whole society.

These instructions given to the health department

The minister said that the government is ready to take strict steps in this matter. On Friday, an important meeting was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister Preston Tionsong, which included Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh and 8 MLAs from East Khasi Hills. In this meeting, there was a discussion on formulating a comprehensive policy to deal with HIV/AIDS. The Health Department has been instructed to prepare a cabinet note for this policy. The minister said that there will be such meetings in Garo Hills and Jayantia Hills, so that a strategy can be made according to the needs of every field. He expressed concern that 3,432 cases of HIV/AIDS have been reported in the East Khasi Hills, but only 1,581 patients are undergoing treatment.

‘The main cause of disease sex’

The Health Minister said, “Jayantia Hills has the highest number of cases, which is worrisome.” He also said that there is no lack of awareness anymore, but it is a big challenge to improve testing and screening. He said that 159 people died in East Khasi Hills because they were deprived of antiretroviral therapy (Art) treatment. He insisted, ‘HIV/AIDS is not fatal if treated at the right time. It is a treatable disease just like cancer or TB. He also informed that sexual relations are the main cause of this disease in Meghalaya. Drug injection cases are still low, but it is difficult to identify addicts. (PTI)