Sharp Rise in HIV Cases Detected Across Odisha
Health authorities in Odisha have identified 2,462 new HIV-positive cases during a seven-month period from April to October this year. The concerning numbers emerged after the state conducted an extensive 14,13,000 tests across various healthcare facilities.
District-wise Breakdown Reveals Concentration in Urban Centers
More than half of the newly detected HIV cases were concentrated in just five districts, with Ganjam district reporting the highest number at 358 cases. Khurda district followed closely with 338 cases, while Cuttack registered 261 infections. Sambalpur and Sundargarh reported 195 and 121 cases respectively.
Other affected districts include Angul with 115 cases and Balangir with 110 cases. In stark contrast, Boudh district recorded only three HIV-positive cases during the same period, according to official data released by the Odisha State AIDS Control Society (OSACS).
Long-term Trends Show Increasing Detection Rates
Since the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) began implementation in the state, Odisha has identified 66,121 HIV-positive cases cumulatively. The current detection rate shows a significant increase compared to previous years, with 2,341 cases detected in 2021-22 rising to 3,769 cases in 2024-25.
OSACS project director Nilakantha Mishra expressed concern about the demographic most affected by the spread. "Many youths in the age group of 18-40 years contract HIV due to unprotected sex," Mishra stated. "They don't follow a safe and healthy lifestyle," he added, highlighting the behavioral factors contributing to the spread.
Enhanced Testing Infrastructure Uncovers Hidden Cases
Officials attribute the rising detection numbers to the state's aggressive testing campaign rather than an alarming increase in transmission rates. "Cases are increasing due to an increase in testing. But there is no alarming rise in HIV cases," Mishra clarified.
The testing infrastructure under NACP includes 167 stand-alone integrated counselling and testing centres (SA-ICTC), seven testing centres under public-private partnership (PPP) mode, and 1,232 screening facilities operating across the state.
An OSACS official revealed that migrant workers constitute a significant portion of new infections. "A sizeable number of migrant workers are getting HIV infection. Unprotected sex is the major reason behind HIV infection, followed by mother-to-child transmission," the official explained.
Comprehensive Treatment Network Established
To address the growing healthcare needs, Odisha has established a robust treatment network comprising 20 anti-retroviral therapy centres (ARTCs), 17 link ARTCs, and 12 care support centres. Recently, two private medical colleges have qualified to function as ARTCs under National Medical Council norms, expanding the treatment capacity further.
The state health department continues to conduct awareness programs alongside treatment initiatives to sensitize people about HIV prevention and management. The combination of expanded testing and treatment infrastructure aims to curb the transmission while providing adequate care for those living with HIV.
