Port Blair, Dec 22: Andaman & Nicobar AIDS Control Society conducted training programme on HIV/AIDS, Blood Donation Motivation, HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017, STD & Condom Promotion at Youth Club, Prem Nagar on 22.12.2021. More than 65 participants attended the programme.
Mr. Girish Kumar Assistant Director (SPM) briefed the gathering about the symptoms and prevention of STD and the preventive measures against HIV infection like safe sex, condom usage, use of sterilized/disposable needles/syringes, safe blood transfusion etc. were highlighted. Youths are important target group who need to know all about HIV/AIDS. They were also exhorted to come forward for the Voluntary Blood Donation. He also informed that A & N AIDS Control Society is providing services through 13 ICTC centres situated at various CHCs, PHCs & Hospitals. The reports of HIV tests are free of cost and kept confidential.
Mr. Kaushik Kumar Halder, Assistant Director (IEC) imparted about HIV/AIDS (Prevention & Control) ACT, 2017 to prevent and control the spread of HIV/ AIDS, prohibits discrimination against persons with HIV and AIDS and No person shall be compelled to disclose is HIV status except by an order of court.
The participants were exhorted to come forward for “Knowing their HIV Status” by voluntarily getting tested themselves. The test report if found positive will be dealt confidentially for care and support.
Mr. R.K. Raj, Social Worker, Prem Nagar, enlighten the importance of the training programme in the community and the programme ended with vote of thanks.
