Tue Feb 25 10:11:30 UTC 2025: ## Mizoram’s HIV Rate Alarmingly High: Minister Calls for Urgent Action

**Aizawl, [Date]** – Mizoram is facing a severe HIV/AIDS crisis, with the state reporting the highest HIV prevalence rate in India at 2.73%, far exceeding the national average of 0.2%. This alarming statistic prompted Health Minister Lalrinpuii to issue an urgent call to action on Monday.

Addressing the Mizoram Legislative Forum on AIDS, a high-level committee dedicated to tackling the epidemic, Minister Lalrinpuii emphasized the need for immediate and effective interventions to curb the rising infection rates. She stressed the critical importance of decisive action from legislators to combat the spread of the virus.

HIV, the virus that attacks the body’s immune system, is primarily transmitted through sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral) without protection, sharing needles, blood transfusions (though rare due to screening), and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Casual contact does not spread the virus.

Groups at higher risk include individuals with multiple sexual partners, intravenous drug users, sex workers, those with STIs, healthcare workers exposed to infected blood, and infants born to HIV-positive mothers.

Prevention methods include consistent condom use, avoiding needle sharing, regular HIV testing, safe blood transfusions, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) if exposed, and preventative measures for mother-to-child transmission. Raising awareness and reducing stigma are also crucial components of combating the epidemic.

The Minister’s statement underscores the gravity of the situation in Mizoram and highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address this public health emergency. Further details regarding the government’s planned interventions are expected to follow.

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