Adult HIV rate in Meghalaya stands at 0.39 %, higher than the national average

The prevalence of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) among adults in Meghalaya stands at 0.39 % which is higher than the national average of 0.21 %, said the Project director of Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS), Dr. B Decruse.

Talking on the sidelines of Youth Fest 2023 organised by MACS, Dr. B Decruse said that people between the ages of 15 and 29 account for nearly 25% of the country’s population and bear 31% of the AIDS burden.

She said Jaintia Hills is the most affected area in the state of Meghalaya.

“The adult prevalence rate of HIV in Meghalaya stands is higher than the national average. Both the East and West Jaintia Hill districts constitute about 60 % of the total HIV burden of the state,” said Dr. B Decruse.

Stating that it is alarming for the state, she said,” Meghalaya is witnessing an increasing trend of new HIV infections, while the other states of the country are in the decreasing trend.”

She said that Meghalaya, after Tripura, has the highest rate of HIV infections in the country.

As a preventive measure and to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS infection among the youth, MACS has been organising youth festival in collaboration with the different colleges of East Khasi Hills district, said Dr. B Decruse.

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