Recently, news from Tripura has shocked everyone. The Tripura Journalist Union, Web Media Forum, and Tripura State AIDS Control Society revealed the shocking fact that 828 students in Tripura have been recognized as HIV positive; 47 of them have passed away from the virus.
572 students are still in Tripura, while the remaining 209 students have left for other states of the country for higher education or employment. According to the joint director of TSACS, the data was collected from 164 health facilities, covering almost all zones of Tripura. Reports identified around 220 schools and 24 colleges in the state, where students are addicted to intravenous drug abuse.
Tripura HIV Crisis: A Concern Over Student Safety And The Efficacy
This worrying situation has raised many questions about student safety in educational institutions and the effectiveness of present preventative measures. It emphasizes the critical need for quick and comprehensive action to stop additional deaths and control the outbreak.
Reasons Behind This Public Health Crisis In Tripura
The crisis caused a huge human loss. The 47 young people who lost their lives reflect the situation of a generation. The mental and social stress on the affected students is incalculable. The stigma attached to HIV exacerbates the problems and may deter students from getting tested and receiving treatment. Here are some of the prime reasons behind this public health crisis in Tripura:
1. Rise of Injectable Drugs
The primary cause of the epidemic is the extensive use of injectable drugs by students. Based on TSACS data, drug use is on the rise in these institutions, with 220 schools and 24 colleges affected by the virus
2.Parents’ negligence and lack of supervision toward their children
According to a report by the Times Of India, It was found that most of the students affected by HIV in schools and colleges have affluent family backgrounds, where either one or both of the parents are engaged in government services and do not monitor what their children are spending the money on.
3. Needle Sharing
Sharing syringes and needles during the injection of drugs appears to be the primary source of the epidemic in Tripura. This even increases the chances of HIV, as the virus of HIV can survive even outside the body in the residual blood.
Government Response To HIV Crisis: The Controversial Aspect Of The Tripura HIV Crisis
An official from the Tripura State AIDS Control Society (TSACS) called the statistics claiming 828 pupils in the state, as HIV positive “misleading”. According to the government, the data are cumulative from April 2007 to May 2024. According to a report from NDTV, officials said that Tripura has been a part of the National AIDS Control Programme since April 1999. Of the 828 pupils who registered as PLHIV (People Living With HIV/AIDS) between April 2007 and May 2024, 47 passed away over a 17-year span.
“Tripura State AIDS Control Society has taken all initiatives to control the menace as per specific guidelines and action plan designed by National AIDS Control Organization,” the project director of TSACS informed the press.
According to her, 828 students who have registered in antiretroviral centers over the years are all receiving free antiretroviral treatment in accordance with National AIDS Control Organization rules.
Fighting The HIV Crisis In Tripura Needs A Diverse Strategy
Even while the situation in Tripura is concerning, it is a clear reminder of how susceptible youth are to HIV infection and drug usage. A comprehensive response is required, emphasizing evidence-based preventive strategies and expanding everyone’s access to healthcare services.
- A change should always start with a family. Parents should be alert towards even minute behavioral changes in children.
- More initiatives are needed to educate students, teachers, and the public.
- The risks associated with injectable drug use, the promotion of safe sexual behavior, and the debunking of HIV-related myths should be covered in social awareness sessions.
- By putting harm reduction techniques into practice, such as needle and syringe exchange programs (NSPs), the risk of HIV transmission among drug injectors can be considerably decreased.
- Simple and easy access to efficient addiction treatment services should be provided to all. This comprises counseling, rehabilitation, and detoxification services to assist people in fighting drug addiction.
- It is essential to engage the community actively. Engaging educators, parents, community leaders, and medical experts in preventative initiatives can foster a friendly atmosphere and promote candid dialogue about these touchy subjects.
Addressing The Root Cause Can Help In Building A Healthier Future
HIV spread in Tripura is a public health emergency. The government, medical professionals, educational institutions, and civil society organizations must collaborate to address the issue. India can tackle this problem and safeguard the lives of its youth by putting in place a thorough preventive plan, expanding treatment accessibility, and encouraging honest communication.
Also, More research is required to determine the underlying reasons of drug usage among students. Substance misuse can be exacerbated by socioeconomic issues such as unemployment, poverty, and a lack of options. It is important to address these underlying issues in order to prevent in the long run.
