HIV outbreak in Lucknow jail raises alarm: 63 HIV cases detected among inmates so far

Lucknow: A disturbing development unfolded within the limits of Lucknow District Jail. A recent health checkup conducted by the state health department has revealed HIV in 36 prisoners. The revelation has raised the total number of HIV cases reported within the institution to 47, raising alarm and putting the facility on a state of high alert. The total count of HIV-infected prisoners in the prison now stands at 63, the jail administration said.

This diagnosis was the result of a health checkup conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Health Department last December 2023. The initiative was taken under the instructions of the state’s AIDS Control Society, with the primary objective of maintaining the health and welfare of the prisoners.

After new HIV cases were detected, the afflicted prisoners were immediately shifted to a hospital in Lucknow for medical treatment. Notably, he is being treated at the Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) Center of King George’s Medical University (KGMU).

Apart from medical treatment, prisoners suffering from HIV are also being given counseling by the jail administration. The purpose of counseling is to provide emotional support during this challenging phase, as well as educate them about the disease. Prison authorities have responded rapidly to the situation, implementing dietary improvements for affected individuals. These measures are expected to strengthen their immune systems and increase their ability to fight the virus.

Lucknow Jail Superintendent Ashish Tiwari confirmed the initiative to improve the diet scheme for the victims. He also highlighted the precautionary measures taken by the institution in view of the reported cases.

These actions demonstrate the prison administration’s commitment to not only managing the crisis but also preventing further spread of the virus within the facility. The series of incidents underlines the urgent need for regular health check-ups in such institutions, so that the health of the inmates can be protected and any medical crises that arise can be promptly addressed.