KOHIMA — Elaborating on various types of drugs, their harms, overdose risks, withdrawal symptoms and how to recognise signs of intoxication, the programme manager of Project Sunshine at Kripa Foundation, Renbonthung Tungoe, has emphasised the need for collective responsibility to address substance abuse in the state.
He was speaking during a free health camp conducted at Tseipfütsiepfhe council hall in AG Colony, Kohima, on August 19.
The event was organised by the Link Worker Scheme (LWS) of Kripa Foundation, in collaboration with MICTC DAPCU, UPHC Potterlane, Indian Social Responsibility Network and Tsiepfütsiepfhe council, AG colony.
Tungoe, who led the session on drugs and drug use, talked about the increasing use of the sunflower drug and highlighted the need for a humane approach to address the issue collectively.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]Using an analogy of a rotten potato, he encouraged treating addiction by offering help and support for recovery and stressed the need to motivate clients to consider OST or detoxification.
Stressing the importance of HIV testing, he emphasised that testing is the first step in maintaining a healthy life and preventing HIV transmission.
While encouraging routine HIV testing as a part of general healthcare, Tungoe called upon all concerned to personally contribute to spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS and its prevention.
Vizotono Phinyo, an outreach worker from Indian Social Responsibility Network, discussed the importance of the Mother and Child Protection Card (MCP), which provides information about immunisation schedules and doses.
She emphasised the role of immunisation in boosting immune systems and safeguarding individuals against various diseases.
Phinyo also urged the parents to ensure timely immunisation for their children, as they are the future of tomorrow.
A total of 109 individuals participated in the camp of which 79 availed free treatment and medicines, while 25 underwent tests for HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, RBS, and Malaria.
The programme was chaired by Mhusolu Demo, zonal supervisor of Link Worker Scheme, Kripa Foundation, while an invocation was said by Keneikho, president of the middle-east sector, AG colony.