Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government is set to launch a two-month awareness campaign on HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), following concerns that young people lack adequate understanding of the issue.
The move comes after information circulated in Karnataka claiming that HIV infection had been confirmed among 7,000 college students. The Karnataka government later clarified that the claim was false.
State AIDS Control Programme Director Seethalakshmi said HIV prevalence in Tamil Nadu remains under control, with infections estimated at 0.16% of the state’s population. She said steps are being taken to eliminate the infection in the coming years.
As part of the National AIDS Control Programme and in line with central government guidelines, the state will conduct an extensive outreach drive from August 12 to October 12. Awareness messages will be taken to schools, colleges, public places and transport vehicles.
Officials also pointed to the “Break Free India” mobile application, which allows users to do a self-assessment related to STIs, as part of the broader effort to improve public understanding.
