KARACHI:
HIV is seldom talked about in Pakistan because of the stigma attached to it. Although HIV is found in less than 0.1% of the Pakistani population, it attacks the immune system and affects both physical and mental health causing severe distress amongst patients. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which is the final stage (Stage 3) of the infection. Unfortunately, there is an absence of widespread awareness and discussion over HIV.
The disease can be transmitted in different ways including unprotected intercourse, sharing infected syringes (most common in intravenous drug abusers and clinics not practicing hygiene protocols), blood transfusion from a person infected with the disease, and vertical transmission (from an affected mother to her child). In Pakistan, anyone affected with the disease is stereotyped as having a poor character and is subjected to shame. People often incorrectly assume that the transmission of this incurable disease can occur through any form of physical contact with an infected person such as through sharing utensils, hugging, shaking hands, or by insect vectors. Resultantly, patients are forced to isolate themselves from society.
Instead of stigmatising individuals, we must all consciously work towards eliminating these misconceptions and avoid harassing patients who are already suffering from a lifelong health crisis. To grow as a society, we must raise awareness about HIV, and pay more attention to it for our upcoming generations. Appropriate counselling sessions should be provided to those affected and their families. Although HIV/AIDS is an incurable disease, patients can still lead a relatively normal life given that they have adequate healthcare and support.
Dua Rizwan
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, March 9th, 2022.
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