On October 31, 2024, the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MAC) in Shillong organized an impactful awareness campaign on HIV/AIDS for the Housekeeping Trainee Batch 3 at the Nirmali Society of Christ Jesus, Mawkasiang. The Intensified IEC Campaign aimed to break down the complexities of HIV/AIDS, spreading vital knowledge and empowering young minds with accurate information to help stem the spread of this global health challenge. 

Counselor Miss Midsy Nongrum led the session, addressing critical topics on HIV/AIDS, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. She explained that HIV/AIDS is caused by a virus and highlighted the various ways it can be transmitted, including through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, the use of contaminated blood, and, in some cases, from parent to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Miss Nongrum’s approachable style allowed the audience to grasp the complex science behind HIV/AIDS transmission, dispelling common myths and encouraging open discussion. 

Participants learned about the signs and symptoms of HIV/AIDS, which can range from abdominal pain, fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite to night sweats, mouth ulcers, gastrointestinal issues, weight loss, and recurrent infections. Miss Nongrum explained that early signs, such as fever and flu-like symptoms, may appear within weeks of infection, with more severe symptoms appearing as the disease progresses toward AIDS. She emphasized how these symptoms are not just physical but also impact mental, emotional, educational, and even professional aspects of an individual's life. These insights led to a thought-provoking conversation among trainees, who inquired about the prevention and potential treatment options for HIV/AIDS.

Miss Nongrum guided the trainees through various preventive measures that play a pivotal role in controlling the spread of HIV/AIDS. She emphasized the importance of regular testing, consistent use of condoms, discussing preventive treatments like post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with healthcare providers, limiting the number of sexual partners, and choosing lower-risk behaviors. She also underscored the necessity of verifying the source of blood donations by checking the labels on blood bags, as contaminated blood can pose serious health risks. These preventive strategies resonated with the trainees, who left with a renewed sense of responsibility for their health and the well-being of their communities.

The discussion also covered sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), where Miss Nongrum described several common STDs, including Herpes (HSV1 and HSV2), Hepatitis B, and scabies. Each of these, she explained, could have serious health implications, further emphasizing the importance of safe sexual practices and regular health checks. The inclusion of STD awareness underscored the interconnected nature of sexual health and HIV prevention, offering a holistic perspective on health and safety that the trainees found invaluable.

Turning her attention to another major issue facing society today, Miss Nongrum discussed the dangers of drug abuse. She noted the alarming rate of drug use among young people in Meghalaya, particularly those aged 17-27. Drug abuse, she explained, not only poses health risks but also fosters mistrust and insecurity within communities. She urged the trainees to make a firm commitment to saying "no" to drugs, a message that resonated with many who are concerned about the rising tide of drug addiction and its devastating effects.

Before concluding, Miss Nongrum reminded the audience that HIV/AIDS is a pressing issue in Meghalaya, with many affected individuals facing stigma and misunderstanding. She encouraged the trainees to speak openly about sexual health, supporting each other in creating a community that values awareness and early intervention over silence and stigma. Miss Nongrum stressed the importance of seeking expert guidance on STDs and HIV/AIDS and advocated for regular testing as a means of staying informed and safe.

The program ended on a high note with a sense of camaraderie, as participants gathered for a group photo, symbolizing their unity in taking steps toward a healthier, more informed community. This awareness event not only equipped attendees with critical information but also inspired them to be proactive advocates for health and prevention, making it a truly memorable and enlightening experience.