Surge in HIV Cases Observed in Bihar's Patna District

Patna, Bihar – The Patna district has reported a significant rise in HIV-positive cases this year, with over 1,200 new infections documented as of December 2025. This alarming trend has drawn attention from health officials and raised concerns about public health initiatives in the region.

According to N K Gupta, the Additional Project Director of the Bihar AIDS Control Society, the total count of HIV-positive individuals in Patna has now reached approximately 7,923. East Champaran district follows closely behind, with more than 400 new cases reported, while West Champaran has recorded 340 new infections this year.

The statistics reveal that the total number of individuals receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Patna stands at 7,923. Of these, 4,705 patients are being treated at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), while 3,091 are receiving care at Rajendra Memorial Research Institute (RMRI), and 127 at Netaji Subhash Medical College.

In East Champaran, 6,827 individuals are currently undergoing ART. Other districts, including Madhubani, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, and Sitamarhi, report substantial figures as well, with 5,685, 5,529, 5,289, and 4,958 cases respectively.

The Bihar AIDS Control Society has indicated that all positive cases identified through Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTC) are referred for complete coverage at ART centres. As stated in an official document dated December 1, the Bihar government operates 32 ART centres across various districts, providing free Antiretroviral (ARV) medications to ensure the treatment and care of 97,046 individuals living with HIV.

Gupta highlighted four primary factors contributing to the increase in HIV cases: unprotected sexual activity, the use of contaminated needles for injections, transfusions of infected blood, and mother-to-child transmission during childbirth.

Despite the rise in cases, the government is actively working to support those affected by HIV through various social security initiatives. Schemes such as the Bihar Centenary AIDS Patient Welfare Scheme and the Parvarish Scheme provide financial assistance to families impacted by the disease.

Health Minister Mangal Pandey did not comment on the current situation when approached, directing inquiries to the officials at the Bihar AIDS Control Society, who are tasked with addressing the issue. The rising number of infections necessitates a renewed focus on prevention and public health education to mitigate further transmission of HIV in the region.