Over 56,000 in Karnataka unaware of HIV status; dating apps pose new challenge to tracing infections

The article highlights that over 56,000 people in Karnataka are unaware of their HIV status, posing a significant challenge to the state's HIV control program. Key hurdles include changing sexual networks due to dating apps, reluctance for voluntary testing due to stigma, and inadequate awareness. The Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS), under the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), has launched the Mobilisation for AIDS Suraksha (MAS) campaign, featuring a 'BreakFree QR code' for confidential self-assessment and testing center linkage, and expanding outreach beyond hospitals to address these issues, emphasizing early diagnosis and treatment.