Nagaland is among the states with the highest HIV prevalence in India, according to the national estimates published by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO). Yet many people here still have never been tested. When we ask why, the answer is almost always the same: fear. Fear of what the result might be, and fear that someone in the church, the colony or the family will find out.
This article explains what an HIV test involves and what protections you have.
Where can I get tested?
HIV testing is available free of cost at government Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs). These are located in district hospitals and many other government health facilities across Nagaland, including in Dimapur. The programme in the state is run by the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society.
If you are not sure where your nearest centre is, call the national AIDS helpline on 1097 (toll-free), or call us and we will tell you.
What happens at the testing centre?
- Counselling first. A trained counsellor talks with you privately, explains the test and answers your questions. You decide whether to go ahead.
- A small blood sample. The test itself takes a few minutes, usually a finger prick or a small blood draw.
- Your result. Results are given to you personally, with counselling, often on the same day.
If the result is positive
A positive result is not the end of the road. HIV today is a manageable, long-term condition. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is provided free at government ART centres. People who start treatment and take it regularly can live long, healthy and productive lives, work, marry and raise families. Taking treatment regularly also greatly reduces the chance of passing the virus to a partner.
Your rights
The HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017 protects people living with HIV. In simple terms:
- No one can test you for HIV without your informed consent, except in limited cases defined by law.
- Your HIV status cannot be disclosed without your consent.
- Discrimination in jobs, schools, healthcare, housing and public services because of HIV status is prohibited.
Talk to us, in confidence
Guardian Angel has worked on HIV/AIDS in Nagaland for many years. If you are worried, or you are supporting a family member, you can talk to us. We can explain the process, go with you to the testing centre if you want company, and help you stay on treatment afterwards. Everything you tell us stays confidential.
Call +91 97036 42210 or email help.guardianangel@outlook.com.
Need help, or want to help?
Our support is free. Call +91 97036 42210 or use the form on our Get Help page.