SHILLONG: As many as 2381 persons in Meghalaya are infected with HIV that causes AIDS and 460 new cases are detected annually, Health Minister A.L. Hek said on Monday.
Meghalaya has an HIV prevalence rate of about 0.13 per cent among adults (15-49 years), he said while speaking during a programme to observe World AIDS Day here.
As per the report on October 2014, the number of PLHIV registered at ART Centre Plus is 1541 and cumulative number alive and on the ART is 588, Hek said.
World AIDS Day was observed here on Monday on the theme: “Getting to Zero: Zero New Infections, Zero Discrimination, Zero AIDS related deaths” with a function held at U Soso Tham Auditorium.
Hek said that December 1 was an important day as it reminded each and everyone about the importance of coming together and fighting to contain the deadly disease which is a global concern.
“By taking the right decision we can achieve universal access to HIV prevention treatment, care and support,” Hek added. Earlier in the day, Hek flagged off the Zindagi Zindabad Campaign to spread awareness on HIV/AIDS throughout the State and lighted a candle to mark the World AIDS Day.
A rock show by the winners of Meghalaya Icon 5 Dymbur was a highlight of the programme.