Rising HIV Cases in Himachal Linked to Injectable Drug Abuse, 60% Patients Aged 16–45
Himachal Pradesh is witnessing a sharp rise in HIV cases due to changing patterns of drug abuse, particularly the injectable use of chitta (heroin). Earlier, addicts consumed the drug orally, but the growing practice of sharing syringes has significantly increased the risk of HIV infection. The impact is most severe among youth and the working-age population.
According to Health Department data, HIV positivity linked to drug abuse stood at 7.22 percent in 2024–25, which has surged to nearly 20 percent in 2025–26. The total number of HIV patients in the state increased from 5,897 in 2024–25 to 6,490 in 2025–26, marking an increase of 593 cases within a year.
Drug de-addiction centres and prisons have also reported a rising number of infected inmates. Nearly 60 percent of HIV-positive individuals in the state fall within the 16 to 45 age group. Health officials attribute this rise to unsafe behaviour, drug addiction, and particularly the sharing of contaminated needles among chitta users.
District-wise data shows Kangra as the most affected district with 1,722 reported cases, followed by Hamirpur, Mandi, and Una. While infection rates are higher among men, a significant number of women, especially young adults, are also affected.
HIV Not Fatal With Proper Treatment
Deputy Director of the Health Department, Meena Kumari, stated that screening and counselling are being intensified in border and high-risk areas such as Baddi, Nurpur, Fatehpur, and Tissa. She emphasized that HIV is not a fatal disease and that patients can lead a healthy life with regular medication.
Awareness Campaigns Intensified
Rajeev Kumar, Director of the State AIDS Control Society, said that extensive awareness campaigns are being conducted across Himachal Pradesh. With support from NGOs, Red Ribbon Clubs, and testing camps in colleges and communities, efforts are being made to identify cases early. Many individuals remain unaware of their infection for years, and timely diagnosis and treatment are helping ensure their safety and well-being.
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