ISLAMABAD, Jun 10 (APP):Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Syed Mustafa Kamal on Wednesday announced the launch of a dedicated 1122 helpline to support people affected by HIV, providing guidance and medical assistance. Responding to a calling attention notice on the rising number of HIV/AIDS cases, particularly among children, he said the service would be linked with the national emergency system and allow individuals to seek confidential …
Govt. to launch 1122 helpline for HIV guidance, support: Minister
ISLAMABAD, Jun 10 (APP):Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Syed Mustafa Kamal on Wednesday announced the launch of a dedicated 1122 helpline to support people affected by HIV, providing guidance and medical assistance.
Responding to a calling attention notice on the rising number of HIV/AIDS cases, particularly among children, he said the service would be linked with the national emergency system and allow individuals to seek confidential advice, especially those unable to discuss the issue openly within families or society.
He said the helpline was expected to become operational within two weeks and would offer counselling, awareness, and referral services to help patients access treatment without fear or social pressure.
The minister said many people hesitate to talk about the disease even at home, adding that the service would help them reach trained professionals and understand treatment options.
He said authorities were intensifying efforts to combat HIV/AIDS through expanded screening, treatment, and awareness campaigns, adding that HIV was now a manageable condition if diagnosed early and treated properly.
He warned that unsafe practices, including the use of contaminated syringes and other risky behaviours, remained key challenges in controlling the spread of the virus.
He also said the federal government was working with provincial authorities to improve healthcare services and public awareness related to HIV.
Acknowledging past shortcomings in awareness campaigns, he said stigma and reluctance have limited public education on the disease. He added that a more aggressive awareness strategy was being prepared using social media, digital platforms, and mainstream media.
He said data from the past five years has been compiled and would be shared with stakeholders to improve policy planning and response mechanisms.
He added that the government was committed to expanding outreach and ensuring accurate information reached the public, with a focus on reducing stigma and changing perceptions about HIV/AIDS.
