“As per instructions by Health Minister Dr Yasmin Rashid and (Primary & Secondary Healthcare) Secretary Usman, Punjab AIDS Control Programme has started yet another free jail screening activity of HIV/AIDS in several districts of Punjab i.e. DG Khan, Bhakkar, Vehari and Gujranwala.
With mutual collaboration of District Health Authority and jail staff, free screening of HIV/AIDS is underway in several districts of Punjab by the staff of Punjab AIDS Control Programme.
To keep the operations smooth, proper training and guidance was provided to the staff so that they can perform the activity as per WHO guidelines under the supervision of health & medical officer (Jail). A proper roadmap was devised to register and treat positive patients accordingly.
Not only free HIV/AIDS screening but Syphilis tests are being done under the programme to ensure health and safety of jail inmates. Moreover, staff of Punjab AIDS Control Programme is also raising awareness among jail inmates and jail staff about the false myths and stigma associated to HIV/AIDS.
Other than that, PACP will not only perform detailed blood testing of HIV+ patients but provision of free treatment and counseling is also a part of this activity. Punjab AIDS Control Programme has formulated a robust MIS to keep a record of HIV+ inmates so that their treatment and medication continues even after their release.
Punjab AIDS Control Programme Director Dr Munir Ahmad Malik appreciated the teamwork of district health authority & prison staff to make jail screening activity a success. He further added that PACP will continue the vision of Minister Health and Secretary Health P&SHD to raise awareness among masses.”
