Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 31 2010:
With the objective of disseminating necessary and timely information to the people through AIDS telephone helpline service (no.1097), a networking system was launched at Khuman Lampak Youth Hostel today.
Addressing the inaugural function of the networking system taken up by the Meetei Leimarol Shinnai Shang (MLSS) under the aegis of MACS, MLSS AIDS telephone helpline coordinator AC Nganthoibi said that any information needed on AIDS by the people may be obtained through helpline number 1097 .
In view of the increasing number of female sex workers and rising cases of HIV-TB co-infection, there is an increasing need for providing information and counselling without personal contact through telephone, she said.
Telephone number 1097 is providing free toll service.
Even though the same service was launched in 2003 under MACS, the service was based on a computerised system.
As the computerised system could not provide up to date information, the system is being run manually now.
Under the new system, there is human to human interaction providing necessary information and counselling, Nganthoibi said.
On the average, there are around 400 to 470 telephone calls to the helpline.
Today's function was facilitated by MACS Division Assistant Omajit Leishangthem.
The helpline service is now available in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Churachandpur and Moreh, he said.
The function was also attended by counsellors of JN Hospital, NGO members, members of rehabilitation centres and officials of Family Welfare Department.