Health authorities in Bihar's West Champaran district have identified a significant number of new HIV cases in the current financial year, prompting renewed calls for awareness and testing.
Details of the Identified Cases
Officials from the Bagaha sub-division have confirmed that 36 people living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) have been identified during the 2025-26 financial year. The breakdown of these cases includes 28 adult men and eight women. Notably, three children are also among those diagnosed.
A positive development amidst this news is that three pregnant women from this group successfully delivered their babies under specialist medical care on Tuesday. However, the newborns have not yet been tested for HIV, a crucial next step in their care pathway.
Government Support and Official Statements
Ashok Tiwari, the deputy superintendent of Bagaha sub-divisional hospital, outlined the financial assistance available to those affected. He stated that the Bihar government provides Rs. 1,500 per month to adults living with HIV under the Bihar Jan Shatabdi Yojana. For children aged 0 to 19 years, a sum of Rs. 1,000 per month is granted via the Parvarish Yojana.
Tiwari also expressed concern that the actual number of people living with HIV in the area might be higher than the currently identified figure. He urged the public to proactively seek information and testing.
Accessing Help and Combating Stigma
Authorities have directed individuals to contact the Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (ICTC) or use the national AIDS helpline 1097 for any queries, guidance, or support. AIDS counsellor Ramesh Ranjan Singh assured that assistance to patients and their dependents is provided promptly and without any discrimination.
Singh emphasized the ongoing medical protocol, noting that health check-ups are conducted every six months for patients, with high-risk individuals being screened regularly as a precautionary measure.
In a critical effort to dispel myths, Singh reiterated that AIDS does not spread through casual contact like eating together, sharing drinks, sitting nearby, or touching. Public awareness campaigns continue to disseminate accurate prevention tips and information across the community. Authorities have urged all residents to remain vigilant, get informed, and eliminate stigma associated with the disease.
