Kalpetta: The number of HIV-infected persons has reportedly surged in Wayanad district this year. At least 35 persons were newly infected with HIV from April to October 2022. Meanwhile, 16 persons were infected between April 2021 and March 2022. At present, 234 HIV-infected persons are undertaking treatment in the district.

Mostly, those who are HIV infected are not seeking treatment voluntarily. Often, the infection is diagnosed when the patient arrives at the hospital for conducting tests or surgeries for other ailments, said Dr Sameeha Saithalavi, district programme manager of National Health Mission. 

The treatment for HIV patients is proceeding at the antiretroviral therapy unit in the Govt Medical College in Mananthavady. ICTC centres for conducting HIV tests are available at Govt Medical College in Mananthavady, General Hospital in Kalpetta, Taluk Hospital in Bathery, General Hospital in Vythiri, and Community Health Centre in Meenangadi.