Aizawl, February 2: Mizoram continues to face a significant public health challenge from HIV/AIDS, with the cumulative number of HIV-positive cases in the state reaching 33,878 between October 1990 and December 2025, according to data released by the Mizoram State AIDS Control Society (MSACS).
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The latest figures highlight the persistent impact of the epidemic in the state, which has consistently recorded one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the country. Health officials have renewed their appeal for greater public awareness, responsible behaviour, and collective efforts to prevent further transmission of the virus.
MSACS officials stated that despite ongoing awareness campaigns and intervention programmes, HIV/AIDS remains a major concern, particularly among vulnerable and high-risk groups. The agency has specifically urged sex workers and their clients to exercise greater caution and strictly adhere to safe sexual practices in order to reduce the risk of infection.
According to MSACS, Aizawl district currently has the highest concentration of sex workers in Mizoram, with more than 1,000 registered sex workers. Officials noted that awareness programmes, health education initiatives, and training sessions are regularly conducted for sex workers to promote safer practices and improve access to healthcare services. However, they emphasized that preventing HIV transmission requires responsible behaviour not only from sex workers but also from their clients.
Data released by MSACS shows that between April 2024 and December 2025, a total of 3,354 new HIV cases were detected across the state. Of these, 2,191 cases (65.32 percent) involved males, while 1,163 cases involved females. Among the female cases, 183 were pregnant women, a figure that has raised concerns about the possibility of mother-to-child transmission.
The data also provides insight into the major modes of HIV transmission in Mizoram. According to MSACS, 70.61 percent of newly detected cases during the period were linked to unprotected sexual contact, making it the leading route of infection. Health experts have repeatedly stressed the importance of condom use and safer sexual practices as effective measures to reduce transmission.
In addition, 852 individuals were infected through the sharing of contaminated syringes and needles, highlighting the continued risks associated with injecting drug use. The report also recorded 56 cases of parent-to-child transmission, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for pregnant women living with HIV.
MSACS emphasized that combating HIV/AIDS requires a collective and sustained effort involving government agencies, healthcare providers, community organizations, and the public. Officials urged people to undergo regular HIV testing, seek timely treatment, avoid sharing needles, and practice safe sex to protect themselves and others.
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The agency also highlighted the importance of reducing stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS. Fear of social stigma often discourages individuals from getting tested or seeking treatment, which can contribute to the continued spread of the virus. MSACS called on communities to support people living with HIV and encourage early diagnosis and access to healthcare services.
Health officials reiterated that while significant progress has been made in HIV prevention and treatment over the years, the latest figures demonstrate that continued vigilance, awareness, and community participation remain essential in controlling the epidemic and improving public health outcomes in Mizoram.
