Alarming Rise in HIV Cases in Sitamarhi District, Bihar

The Sitamarhi district in Bihar is facing a significant challenge with a high number of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases. Data from the district’s Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) center, covering the period from 2012 to 2025, shows approximately 7,400 individuals registered with HIV. This large number includes over 400 children under the age of 18, along with 3,544 women and 2,733 men, highlighting the disease’s widespread impact across different demographics.

The ART center is heavily burdened, with around 250 to 300 patients arriving daily for their essential antiretroviral treatment. Furthermore, the district continues to see a steady stream of new infections, with about 40 to 60 new HIV cases registered monthly across its 17 administrative blocks. This persistent rate of new cases underscores the need for intensified prevention and awareness efforts, especially in rural areas.

Health officials emphasize that the Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) is provided free of cost nationwide through the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO). However, the rising number of cases, particularly among minors, points to a lack of sufficient awareness, testing, and prevention strategies. Officials stress the importance of public education regarding the different modes of HIV transmission, such as through blood transfusions or shared needles , while noting that nearby districts like Bettiah and Muzaffarpur are facing even more severe situations.