AIDS on rise among migrant labourers

KOZHIKODE: A study conducted as part of the Migrants Suraksha Project of the Organisation for Industrial Spiritual and Cultural Advancement - International (OISCA) has revealed that the prevalence of HIV is on rise among the migrant labourers in the city and suburban areas in Kozhikode. OISCA implemented Migrants Suraksha Projects with the financial and technical support of Kerala State AIDS Control Society (KSACS) among the migrant labourers and drivers especially in the construction sector in the district. National HIV sentinel surveillance study has showed HIV prevalence among them getting doubled to 6.2 per cent in just one year. In a recent test held among the 354 migrant workers, seven were found HIV positive. “The bridge population comprising sex workers, injecting-drug users, migrants and truck drivers are the high-risk HIV behaviour groups,” said Dennis Joseph, joint director (Targeted Interventions), Kerala State AIDS Control Society. As per the latest sentinel surveillance study published in 2009, the prevalence of AIDS among them is 5.3 per cent in the state. Earlier, it was 10.35 and 9.19 percent in 2006 and 2007, respectively according to the sentinel surveillance study. But the alarming fact is that the prevalence rate doubled in the Kozhikode district.  In this circumstances OISCA has planned more awareness campaigns and activities in Cheruvannur, Mankavu, Nallalam, Ramanattukara, Kulathara, Beypore, Olavanna and Pantheeramkavu regions where the migrant labourers reside enmasse. OISCA selected peer leaders from the migrant workers community and awareness camps and other programmes are conducted with their help. Peer leaders are entitled to an allowance of Rs 1000 per month. OISCA , the sponsors of the health cards issued by Medical department to the migrant labourers conducted 1821 HIV tests in the Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres located at the Medical College, Beach Hospital and Women and Children Hospital Kottaparamba. The organisation is conducting the classes among the migrant labours in Hindi. “We are also planning a documentary to create awareness among migrants and others about HIV,” said Ajith Erakkathil of OISCA Migrant Project.