CoNE launches International Testing Week campaign
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 29 2024: Community Network for Empowerment (CoNE) launched International Testing Week (ITW) 2024, a global initiative aimed at increasing access to testing services for vulnerable populations, at its Palace Compound office.

The campaign, observed from November 29 to December 5 across 51 countries, including India, focuses on raising awareness and encouraging testing for viral infections such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV.

According to a statement, CoNE has tied up with the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP) to provide free Hepatitis B and C testing throughout the campaign.

Speaking at the launch even, NVHCP state nodal officer Dr Rosie Rajkumari highlighted that the programme prioritises supporting participants at the screening camps by offering a range of services, from screening and diagnosis to vaccination and treatment for Hepatitis B and C .

She stated that the pri mary goal is to ensure individuals who test positive receive timely and effective treatment, ultimately reducing the burden of viral hepatitis in the region.

She also highlighted that government hospitals would offer free screening, diagnosis, and treatment for Hepatitis B and C to the public.

CoNE is also collaborating with the Manipur State AIDS Control Society (MSACS) and Meitei Leimarol Sinai Sang (MLSS) to offer free HIV testing services during ITW 2024 .

The screenings, conducted confidentially and with high-quality standards, will be available at five key locations in Manipur, targeting individuals at higher risk of infection.

During the event, a poster designed to raise awareness about Hepatitis B and C was unveiled by Dr Rosie, along with CoNE president RK Nalinikanta and secretary RK Komoljit Singh.

The posters will be displayed in government hospitals and NGOs working in the fields of HIV and drug treatment.

Screening locations include the Methadone Maintenance Therapy (MMT) Centre at RIMS, drug treatment centres funded by the ministry of social justice and empowerment, and sites catering to nurses and sanitary workers at JNIMS.

This year's observance of ITW carries added significance as it aligns with CoNE's broader efforts to promote early detection, treatment, and prevention of viral infections, particularly among marginalised communities facing barriers to essential healthcare services.

"We are deeply grateful for the support of NVHCP, 6MSACS, and our partners in ensuring that individuals at high risk for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV can access critical testing and care services during International Testing Week," said RK Nalinikanta.

He added that the collaboration seeks to dismantle barriers to testing and enable early intervention, which is vital in combating viral infections.

The statement called on the community, media, and public health advocates to support the campaign, emphasising that regular testing for HIV and viral hepatitis is key to fostering a healthier and more informed society.

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