HIV cases rise in capital; Health Department steps up awareness campaigns

Bengaluru: A rise in HIV infections in Bengaluru, particularly among young adults, has prompted the Health Department to strengthen awareness campaigns in colleges, universities and workplaces. Health officials say changing social behaviour and increased use of online dating platforms have contributed to the growing number of infections in certain high-risk groups.

According to official data, 4,795 people tested HIV-positive in the last five months across the state. Health authorities said a significant proportion of the newly detected infections were reported among men who have sex with men (MSM), a recognised high-risk group for HIV transmission. Officials also noted that a sizeable number of new cases involve unmarried individuals, accounting for nearly 20-25 per cent of infections.

The Health Department has expressed concern over the increasing number of infections among students residing in college hostels and paying guest (PG) accommodations in Bengaluru. As a preventive measure, awareness programmes are being planned in educational institutions to educate young people about safe sexual practices, HIV prevention and the importance of early testing.

Responding to the trend, Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society Project Director Padma Basavanthappa said awareness remains the most effective tool in preventing the spread of HIV. She said outreach programmes are being intensified among college students, IT employees, migrant workers, drivers and truckers, who are considered vulnerable groups because of mobility and behavioural risk factors.

She also pointed out that men who have sex with men and commercial sex workers continue to be among the identified high-risk categories, making focused intervention programmes essential.Health officials said increasing use of dating applications has changed patterns of social interaction, making awareness about responsible behaviour and safe practices even more important. The department clarified that HIV testing cannot be made compulsory under existing health guidelines. Testing can only be conducted with the informed consent of the individual, while maintaining confidentiality and counselling.

Officials urged people to avoid stigma surrounding HIV and encouraged those engaging in high-risk behaviour to undergo voluntary testing and seek timely medical advice. They emphasised that early diagnosis and treatment not only improve health outcomes but also significantly reduce the risk of further transmission.

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The Hans India