Screenings for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C will soon begin in state centers for drug addiction treatment and rehabilitation in the Punjab state. This decision was made as part of the Bhawangat Mahan government's 'War on Drugs' campaign.
This measure is intended to strengthen the fight against both drug abuse and infectious diseases in Punjab. The goal is to prevent not only drug use but also infection. Viral diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C can be transmitted through the shared use of contaminated needles and syringes.
Timely detection and treatment of these infections can help individuals recovering from drug addiction return to a healthy life and integrate into society. Previously, testing for HIV and hepatitis was conducted in camps approximately every two months. Although testing was carried out there, it was difficult to determine who was undergoing examination, who was skipping it, and who required further treatment.
Under the new system, testing will no longer be limited to camps; it will be directly integrated into the process of drug addiction treatment and rehabilitation. This will ensure regular screening and allow for the identification of individuals needing further treatment or continuous improvement of medical care.
The Minister of Health and Family, Dr. Balbir Singh, noted that people who inject drugs have a higher risk of contracting bloodborne infections. Therefore, timely detection of these diseases is crucial for administering adequate treatment. He emphasized that his government's goal is not just to get people off drugs but also to give them the opportunity to lead a healthy life and make a significant contribution to society.
Dr. Singh added that previously, if a person could not attend a screening camp, they had to wait weeks for the next camp. Now, thanks to the integration of testing with drug addiction treatment services, the state will be able to identify individuals who need testing. He believes this decision demonstrates the government's commitment to preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Earlier, in August, Dr. Balbir Singh announced the introduction of advanced testing methods, such as Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT) and Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA), for the early detection of bloodborne infections, including HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, and to strengthen the blood safety system in Punjab.
All 'Aam Aadmi' clinics in the state provide free testing for these three infections. These diseases can remain in the body for many years without obvious symptoms, while the illness gradually becomes serious. However, timely screening and proper treatment allow patients to recover and live a full life.
The integration of 'Triple H' screening with drug addiction treatment services also reflects the government's comprehensive approach to tackling the problem of drug addiction. This system has already been launched in private centers, and its implementation in state centers is expected soon. The goal of this initiative is to make the entire care process more reliable for people affected by drug addiction.