HIV awareness discussed at Chandigarh Women’s Day event

Under the aegis of National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), the Chandigarh State AIDS Control Society (CSACS) organised a state-level programme to mark International Women’s Day.

The event, themed “Accelerate Action for All Women & Girls: Rights – Equality – Empowerment”, saw the participation of around 50 Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) from various health facilities.

Dr Suman Singh, Director of Health Services, Chandigarh, the chief guest, emphasised the need to sensitise healthcare workers about HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention, highlighting how such initiatives play a crucial role in reducing new infections.

Dr Sushil Kumar Mahi, Project Director of CSACS, said the society was leveraging multiple platforms, including social media, to educate and raise awareness about HIV/AIDS among the city’s population.

He stressed that training healthcare workers would enhance their ability to counsel patients effectively, thereby encouraging more individuals to avail themselves of free and confidential HIV testing at nearby health centres.

During the session, participants were sensitised on key aspects, including the HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Act (2017), universal safety precautions, and the Elimination of Vertical Transmission of HIV and Syphilis.