(a) whether tests for HIV confirmation are different for the children below the age of two years;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether HIV testing machines are available in all the Medical Colleges;
(d) whether these colleges are authorized to announce the status of an AIDS/HIV victims; and
(e) if so, the number of cases noticed till date?
THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (DR. C.P. THAKUR)
(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. The HIV status of children below the age of 2 years can be detected by a test known as polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
(c) HIV testing machines, for detecting antibodies i.e. ELISA readers are available in a majority of Public Sector Medical Colleges; the machines for conducting the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test are available at a few centers only, and are not recommended for routine diagnostic use.
(d) They are authorized to reveal the status to the HIV/AIDS victims only, after pre and post test counseling, and maintaining full confidentiality.
(e) The number of AIDS cases reported till 31st October 2001 is 29007.