HIV cases on the rise in Odisha; 2,462 new positive cases reported till October

To mark World AIDS Day, the Odisha State AIDS Control Society organised an awareness rally in Bhubaneswar on Sunday. According to government data, 2,462 HIV-positive cases were detected in the state till October this year.

The rally was held on the premises of Capital Hospital and was flagged off by Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, who stressed the need to spread awareness and reduce the stigma associated with HIV.

Goal of 20 Lakh HIV Tests for 2025

As per reports, the state set a target to conduct 20 lakh HIV tests this year, 12 lakh among the general population and 8 lakh among pregnant women. Of these, 14 lakh tests have already been completed. Officials said such awareness activities help encourage testing and early detection.

Health Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling emphasised the message behind the campaign.

“We conduct awareness programmes every year on December 1 for AIDS prevention. The aim is to make people understand that AIDS does not spread through touch. We want to sensitise the younger generation and use social media as an effective tool,” he said.

Higher Transmission Rates and District-Wise Burden

Health officials highlighted that mother-to-child transmission continues to be reported at a higher rate, while immoral sexual contact remains a major contributor to new infections.

Districts reporting the highest HIV burden this year include Cuttack, Ganjam, and Nabarangpur. Cuttack falls under Category-1, indicating a higher transmission level. Nabarangpur has also shown increased cases, which officials link to migration and its border location.

Case distribution so far:
Ganjam: 338 cases
Cuttack: 261 cases
Nabarangpur: 70 cases
Khordha: 338 cases
Sambalpur: 195 cases
Sundargarh: 121 cases
Angul: 115 cases

Odisha’s Position in the National Context

Odisha reportedly ranks third in HIV prevalence compared to the national average. However, officials noted a decline in the positivity rate this year.

HIV-positive cases detected in previous years:
2022–23: 3,232 cases
2023–24: 3,436 cases
2024–25: 3,769 cases
In contrast, 2,462 cases have been detected till October 2025.

Authorities said sustained testing, awareness programmes and preventive interventions are essential to bring down transmission rates and address the district-wise disparities across the state.