THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As we celebrate World AIDS Day on December 1 with the message of sharing responsibility and declaring solidarity, there is much to Kerala's relief.

The number of newly diagnosed patients dropped to hundred a month as the preventive measures showed results.

The AIDS Control Society, which is implementing 61 projects to combat AIDS, is confident of making Kerala a state free of new patients by 2030. It is estimated that by 2024, 80 percent of infections will be prevented.

People living with the HIV virus that causes AIDS can have a safe life if they follow proper medication, diet and lifestyle.

Most AIDS patients are young. Studies show that the main reason is having unprotected same-sex activity.

How most people get infected:

70% - Unprotected sex

20% - by injecting drugs

10% - Through blood donation and from mother to baby

Patients

24,956 - Total patients

1143 - New patients

652 - Men

372 - Women

4 - Transgender

100 - new patients each month

Age

Most of the patients were aged 19-22 years