Abbott & YRGCARE Open Centers To Combat HIV In India

Abbott, a healthcare company, and YRGCARE, a leading non-profit organisation, have inaugurated two new outreach centres in India dedicated to combating HIV and other infectious diseases. 

The companies in a joint statement on Monday informed that the initiative is part of the Abbott Pandemic Defense Coalition, which focuses on advancing scientific research and preventing future pandemics.

The statement further informed that the new facilities, located in Delhi and Aizawl, aim to transform the lives of over 2,500 individuals in the next year through comprehensive care for those at risk of HIV and other infectious diseases. YRGCARE, which has been providing support to at-risk populations in Delhi since 2012, is expanding its reach with the support of Abbott.

The first facility, named “The Blue Shed,” is situated in Delhi’s Yamuna Bazar, a known hotspot for HIV transmission among transient populations. It offers a range of services, including on-site testing, treatment, counselling, and support for individuals at risk of HIV, hepatitis, and other infectious diseases. The facility also provides access to social services, daily meals, hygienic showers, and consultation with healthcare professionals.

“The Blue Shed” also connects individuals to government-run Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) and Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) programs, as well as tuberculosis treatments when needed. Currently, over 600 individuals are registered with the clinic, with the number growing daily.

In Mizoram, the newly opened adolescent centre in Aizawl focuses on at-risk youth vulnerable to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Supported by the Abbott Pandemic Defense Coalition, the center offers testing, treatment, healthcare services, counseling, mental health services, and guidance programs. Over 1,600 young people have enrolled at the centre, with more joining regularly.

Sunil Solomon, Chairman of YRGCARE, emphasised the importance of addressing the broader needs of at-risk populations. "Transitioning from a disease focus to a person focus allows us to better connect individuals to healthcare and counselling," he said. "The HIV epidemic in India remains a public health issue, and these facilities represent the innovation needed to address viral transmission among hard-to-reach populations."

Gavin Cloherty, Head of Infectious Disease Research at Abbott, highlighted the global significance of these efforts. "Ensuring that more people understand their HIV status and have access to treatment helps stop the spread of the virus," he stated. "These facilities join an international network focused on viral surveillance and pandemic prevention, underscoring the importance of large-scale alliances."