Shillong, Nov 29: Meghalaya has reported more than 10,000 HIV/AIDS cases, including 500 children, prompting authorities to raise concern over the rising spread of the virus in the state. According to officials, East Jaintia Hills continues to record the highest number of infections, with a significant number of affected children belonging to economically disadvantaged families.

Project Director of the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS), KL Iawbor, said unprotected heterosexual contact remains the primary mode of transmission, while reluctance to undergo testing continues to delay early diagnosis and treatment. “More than 10,000 people have tested positive, and it is alarming that 500 of them are children,” he said.

As the state prepares to observe World AIDS Day on December 1, MACS highlighted the need for collective responsibility to curb further transmission. The society recently conducted screening of 6,882 individuals, identifying 24 new positive cases. MACS noted that 87 percent of total detections were made through outreach programs covering high-risk groups and the general population. Cases were recorded through voluntary testing as well as referrals based on suspicion.

To mark World AIDS Day, MACS will hold a bikers’ rally and a series of public events on December 1. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, cabinet ministers, MLAs from East Khasi Hills, nursing and paramedical students, and people living with HIV are expected to participate.