Nadda urges taking preventive measures, early testing

Preventive measures and early testing are essential in the fight against HIV/AIDS, said Union Health Minister JP Nadda on World AIDS Day on Monday.

World AIDS Day is observed every year on December 1 to address the epidemic and the vulnerabilities faced by children and adolescent girls and young women, as well as to fight the stigma attached to the disease. The theme this year is "Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response".

Nadda also stated the need to fight misconceptions and stigma faced by people suffering from HIV.

“World AIDS Day reminds us of the importance of understanding HIV/AIDS, taking preventive measures, and encouraging early testing. It is also an opportunity to show solidarity with those infected and affected by HIV, while dispelling myths about HIV transmission, such as misconceptions regarding how the virus is spread,” the Health Minister shared in a post on social media platform X.

“As a society, we must raise awareness, combat the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS, and ensure equal access to healthcare for all. Together, let's work toward a healthier, more inclusive future,” he added.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 40.8 million people were living with HIV globally in 2024. While about 630,000 people died from HIV related causes in 2024, an estimated 1.3 million people acquired HIV last year.