East Jaintia Hills Launches Three-Month Health and HIV Screening Drive

Shillong: East Jaintia Hills kicked off a three-month Integrated Health Campaign on Tuesday to expand local medical access. MLA Santa Mary Shylla launched the initiative at Dkhiah East village. The Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, district administration, and the Office of the District Medical and Health Officer organized the push.

The program prioritizes HIV screening and early detection. Shylla pushed for a local Antiretroviral Therapy Centre to combat the disease. She noted that ignorance and social stigma hinder progress. “HIV testing is one of the most important services under this campaign, as early detection is crucial in preventing and controlling the spread of the disease,” she said.

Assistant Commissioner F. Wann identified the district as a red-flag zone for HIV. She reported that fear keeps residents from checking their status. Officials want NGOs, village leaders, and faith groups to mobilize the public for voluntary tests.

Health teams will screen for tuberculosis, diabetes, syphilis, and eye or dental issues. The drive also helps citizens with Aadhaar enrolment and MHIS Smart Card registration. Key attendees included Dr. K.L. Iawbor, R. Bareh, B. Kharbithai, R. Pyrtuh, and M. Kyndait.