LAHORE: Punjab government is focusing on awareness as a key strategy for prevention and control of HIV/AIDS, said Punjab AIDS Control Programme (PACP) Manager Dr Adnan Zafar Khan on Thursday at the Orientation Session for Media on HIV/AIDS at a local hotel.
The session was attended by UNAIDS Country Director for Pakistan and Afghanistan Mr Mamadou al Sakhu, TV anchors, reporters and officials of the UNAIDS and Punjab AIDS Control Programme.
Speaking in a session to discuss ways to spread awareness on HIV/AIDS, Dr Zafar Khan said, “The Punjab AIDS Control Programme has conducted free screening, treatment and vaccination of over 17,000 truck/bus drivers and screened about 95 per cent jails in all districts of Punjab.
We are reaching out to Transgenders and have set up a centre at Fountain House,” he added. Dr Zafar said that the PACP has collaborated with the Walled City of Lahore Authority and Akhuwat where people—with high-risk behaviour—are being offered a comprehensive package.
He further said that the PACP is working on a new legislation to address the issue of stigma. “A new draft is being reviewed by a team of experts so that every possible effort is made for the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS in the province and all ancillary areas are addressed,” he added. “There are many areas from infection control to stigma and discrimination for patients that need to addressed,” said Dr Zafar.
UNAIDS Country Director Mamadou al Sakhu said his organisation will fully support Punjab for their dedication to the cause of HIV/AIDS and will also extend support in the effective implementation of the HIV legislation, once passed.
