AIDS awareness and support services suspended in Sikkim

HIV/AIDS awareness and support services have been stopped in Sikkim after the staff of the department joined the nationwide ongoing strike. Sikkim AIDS Control Employees Association struck work since February 4 in support of the ongoing pan-India strike called by All India AIDS Control Employees Association demanding fulfillment of its six-point charter of demands.(Read: HIV/AIDS causes, symptoms and complications)

During the indefinite strike, except supply of ARV drugs, other facilities like ICTC centres, DAPCU, STI, OST, Mobile ICTC, Blood Safety, including SSACS Head Office have been closed until the demands are fulfilled. (Read: 11 things about HIV/AIDS you didn't know)

What is HIV?

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that destroys or impairs the function of the body's immune system making the person more susceptible to infections. Unless treated, it develops into full-blown acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The virus infects humans when it comes in contact with tissues lining the vagina, anal area, mouth and eyes, or through a break in the skin. There are two main types HIV-1 and HIV-2. HIV-2 is typically found in Africa and parts of Asia. HIV-2 is typically found in Africa and parts of Asia. Asia can thus no longer be considered free of HIV-2, and testing for HIV-2 appears mandatory, at least in India. Worldwide, when people refer to HIV they are usually referring to HIV-1.

What is AIDS?

Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) isn't a disease in itself. It is a condition in caused by HIV in which the body's immune system fails to battle foreign microorganisms. This leads to various opportunistic infections and/or certain cancers. It is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. (Read: HIV/AIDS Causes, Symptoms, Tests, Treatment & More)

With inputs from PTI

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