Although the HIV/AIDS epidemic is no longer classified as the untreatable health threat it once was, complete eradication remains out of reach. Despite continuous government warnings, awareness drives and outreach programmes, the transmission of HIV has not been contained. Unprotected sexual activity and unsafe injection practices continue to drive infections, especially in rural and industrial zones.
Across the state, thousands of patients are currently receiving treatment at ART (Antiretroviral Therapy) centres, yet the number of new cases continues to increase. Recent medical data shows that 200 to 300 new HIV infections are being reported every month. A concerning trend is that most newly diagnosed patients fall within the youth age group. Urban and industrial belts are witnessing a more rapid spread compared to rural areas.
Reports indicate that casual sexual relationships and lack of safe practices among young people are contributing significantly to rising infection rates. The use of unsterilised syringes, especially in villages and by unqualified medical practitioners, is also accelerating the spread. Migrant workers moving from rural areas to industrial hubs have been identified as a major risk group, often engaging in unsafe sexual activity and later transmitting the virus to their families.
The government is providing pensions and specialised treatment facilities to HIV-positive patients through ART centres. Patients receive medication, protein-rich nutrition and counselling aimed at preventing further transmission. However, many people remain unaware of their HIV-positive status until the disease has progressed, resulting in continued silent spread before detection.
Medical experts note that lack of awareness continues to be the biggest challenge. HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, transfusion of infected blood, contaminated syringes and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. Unsafe reuse of syringes in remote regions by unqualified medical personnel continues to contribute to widespread infection.
Latest Developments in HIV Treatment in 2025
Medical advancements have strengthened HIV treatment, but a complete cure is yet to be discovered. Current treatment continues to focus on long-term viral suppression and improved quality of life.
Long-acting injectable ART: Monthly or bi-monthly injections are now available as an alternative to daily tablets, providing strong viral suppression with fewer side effects.
Chewable and dissolvable tablets: These new formats offer a more convenient option for individuals who have difficulty swallowing regular ART pills, particularly children and the elderly.
Personalised HIV care: Treatment plans are increasingly being customised using pharmacogenomic data to match medication with each patient’s genetic profile, increasing effectiveness and reducing side effects.
Healthcare professionals stress that early detection, regular testing, safe sexual practices and continued public awareness are essential to controlling the spread of HIV/AIDS.