HIV is no longer a word that frightens young people. For a generation that has grown up seeing HIV transformed from a feared death sentence into a manageable chronic condition, the virus no longer carries the deterrent power it once did.
“One of the most important messages we can give youth today is that testing matters, even without symptoms. However, these figures do not capture the full picture, as Keralam does not have routine STI surveillance across public and private hospitals. STIs also rarely figure in formal public health conversations. Equally important is ensuring that youngsters know where they can seek confidential testing, advice and treatment without fear of judgement. Being safe goes beyond HIV prevention. Condoms significantly reduce the risk of many STIs, including HIV, gonorrhoea and chlamydia, but do not eliminate the risk of infections such as syphilis, HPV and genital herpes, which can spread through skin-to-skin contact. HPV and hepatitis B vaccination, regular testing, timely treatment and reducing exposure to multiple or unknown partners are also important. Many STIs cause no symptoms, so someone can have and transmit an infection without knowing it. Sam Prasad, who heads AHF India Cares, an NGO working in HIV. “We are quite concerned that some STIs are now presenting differently and with serious complications. At STI clinics, young people diagnosed with an infection are encouraged to bring their partners for testing to prevent reinfection. They are also advised to complete treatment and undergo HIV testing, given the close relationship between HIV and other STIs.
The numbers seeking care at the 23 District STI/RTI Centres (DSRCs) under the Kerala State AIDS Control Society (KSACS) have been rising steadily. On World Sexual Health Day (September 4), experts say Keralam needs more open conversations with young people about sexual health, safe sexual practices, consent and healthy relationships.
Testing becomes particularly important after a potential exposure or when starting a new sexual relationship,” said V. We have had reports of neurosyphilis, ocular syphilis and cardiovascular syphilis, which are complicated and require long and intensive treatment,” a Health official said.
To encourage confidential testing, KSACS has launched a digital self-assessment tool through which users can privately assess their sexual-health risk. By scanning a QR code and answering questions about lifestyle and behavioural practices, users receive guidance on whether testing may be advisable, along with information on the next steps and the nearest STI clinic.
