A Global Campaign Reaches Manipur’s Most Vulnerable
From November 29 to December 6, 2024, the Community Network for Empowerment (CoNE) joined forces with the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP), Manipur State AIDS Control Society (MSACS), and Coalition PLUS to deliver life-saving health screenings across Manipur. As part of International Testing Week (ITW)—a global initiative in 51 countries—the campaign targeted high-risk groups, including people who inject drugs (PWID), nurses, and sanitary workers, with free testing for HIV, Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV).
Under the theme “We Get Tested,” the initiative emphasized early detection, treatment access, and prevention, including HBV vaccination for susceptible individuals.
Key Achievements: By the Numbers
✅ 218 people screened for HBV and HCV across 6 sites
✅ 130 HIV tests conducted (despite stigma challenges)
✅ 66 HCV cases detected (21.5% positivity rate)
✅ 3 HBV cases identified (linked to treatment)
✅ 171 individuals received 1st dose of HBV vaccine (97% coverage of eligible participants)
How the Campaign Unfolded
1. Press Conference Kickoff
On November 29, CoNE and partners officially launched ITW 2024 at the CoNE Conference Hall in Imphal. Dr. Rosie Rajkumari (NVHCP) underscored the state’s commitment to free screening, vaccination, and treatment for viral hepatitis, while CoNE President Nalinikanta Rajkumar highlighted the power of partnerships to “break down barriers to testing.”
2. Six Screening Camps: Reaching Marginalized Groups
Testing sites included:
- Methadone Maintenance Therapy (MMT) Centre at RIMS
- Government and private drug treatment centers (Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal)
- JNIMS Hospital (for nurses/sanitary workers)
Notable Challenges:
- Nurses/sanitary workers declined HIV testing due to stigma.
- HBV vaccine shortages left some high-risk groups unvaccinated.
3. Poster Campaign: Spreading Awareness
On December 3, eye-catching posters about HBV/HCV prevention were displayed at:
- JNIMS and RIMS hospitals
- Thoubal District Hospital
- Community centers and drug treatment facilities
Success Stories & Ongoing Challenges
Wins:
- Historic collaboration between NVHCP, MSACS, and CoNE for joint HBV/HCV/HIV screening.
- 66 HCV-positive individuals linked to free treatment under the national program.
- Media coverage (see links below) amplified public awareness.
Hurdles:
- Ongoing state crisis disrupted some scheduled activities.
- Vaccine gaps: HBV shots for nurses/sanitary workers not covered by national programs.
How You Can Help
- Advocate for expanded vaccine access in national health programs.
- Share this story to combat testing stigma.
- Support organizations like CoNE and Coalition PLUS in reaching marginalized communities.
“Testing is the first step to healing. No one should be left behind.”