Chandigarh: Chandigarh has over 3,000 people currently living with HIV, according to the latest report released by National AIDS Control Organisation, highlighting both the scale of the challenge and improvements in treatment outcomes.
The data indicates that 3,016 individuals in the Union Territory are living with HIV, including 2,016 men and 1,000 women. The adult prevalence rate stands at 0.30%, while the city records approximately 166 new infections and 35 AIDS-related deaths each year.
Among vulnerable groups, injecting drug users (IDUs) show the highest infection rate, followed by prison inmates and men who have sex with men. Migrant populations and female sex workers also contribute to the overall numbers, though with comparatively lower prevalence levels.
Despite these figures, health authorities have reported significant gains in treatment and care. Thousands of individuals are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), with retention rates exceeding 95%. A large proportion of patients undergoing viral load testing have achieved viral suppression, indicating effective adherence to treatment.
Efforts to curb transmission among high-risk groups have also intensified. Needle and syringe distribution programmes, along with opioid substitution therapy, are being implemented to reduce infection risks among drug users. Similar targeted interventions are underway for other vulnerable populations.
In the area of maternal health, widespread HIV testing among pregnant women has yielded encouraging results. Nearly all expectant mothers underwent screening, and preventive measures ensured that no infants tested positive during early follow-up stages.
Testing and awareness campaigns have also expanded, with over one lakh individuals screened across various centres. Officials say these combined measures reflect a steady improvement in both detection and management of HIV cases.
While the numbers underline the continued presence of the disease, the report points to a strengthening healthcare response aimed at reducing transmission and improving quality of life for those affected.
