Addressing the alarming HIV cases due to sexual transmission in Mizoram, its Health Minister Lalrinpuii called for immediate action, he said the situation is a ‘collective disgrace’ for the Mizo society. On the occasion of International Condom Day, the minister disclosed that 70 per cent of HIV cases are sexually transmitted, placing the state above the national average. He was addressing an event organised by the Mizoram State AIDS Control Society in collaboration with AHF India Cares and the theme for the event was ‘Just Use It’.
Why are HIV cases rising in Mizoram?
Sharing the data on the existing cases of HIV in India, she said, the cases prevalence is 0.2 percent, while Mizoram is one of the worst affected states with 2.74 percent. Lalrinpuii said, “This is not just a health issue, it reflects on us as a society,”. She pointed out that the spread of the virus is mostly linked to infidelity, lack of awareness, and in many cases due to non-usage of preventive steps. She even pointed out that all this goes against the religious values of the Mizo community. Lalrinpuii requested young adults to be cautious while having relationships.
Lalrinpuii spoke on preventives such as condoms, she cited the World Health Organization, and stated that condoms are the safest way to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Appealing audiences to forget the misconception around condoms and start using them, “While abstinence before marriage is ideal, those who are sexually active must protect themselves and their partners. Using a condom is a simple act that can save lives.”
What is Love Brigade 2.0?
Love Brigade 2.0 campaign aims at making condom usage normal. Under this campaign, two-wheeler taxi riders wearing a special jacket that would be stocked with free condoms will move around and anyone who wants can take it from him without any hesitation. Talking about the initiative, V. Sam Prasad, Country Program Director of AHF India Cares, said HIV only spreads when prevention fails. “No one should be forced into risky sex simply because they couldn’t get a condom,”.
In order to address the existing taboos, health authorities in Mizoram are taking this bold step to make the messaging clear and prevent the further spread of HIV.
