Guwahati HC seeks information regarding AIDS victims

Imphal, Aug 23: Guwahati High Court has directed the Centre, Health Ministry, Health and Family Welfare department, the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) and Manipur government to provide information regarding the health care given to AIDS victims.

A PIL filed yesterday by the Manipur Network of Positive People (MNP+)at the Imphal bench of Gauhati HC demanded the installation of two CD4 machines in each of the four hospitals having AIDS controlling programme in the state.

The multi-functional diagnostic system, CD4 count machine, used to test HIV/AIDS could also detect Leukaemia, said the official sources.

The machine analyzes and sorts blood arid, besides, immuno-phenotyping, absolute counting, residual white blood cell enumeration, stem cell analysis and DNA analysis.

The system would also provide technology for sophisticated cellular and molecular work in areas such as genetics, proteomics, multi colour analysis and immune function.

The PIL appealed to carry out a mandatory CD4 test after HIV diagnostic test, in every three months.

The HC issued a show cause notice of motion to the respondents within four weeks as why the machines were not installed.

UNI