MALAPPURAM: Out of the 10 people who tested positive for HIV in Valanchery, four are Malayalees. The remaining six are migrant workers from other states. The HIV was confirmed during a test conducted in the prison. It is doubted that those people who shared the same syringe for injecting drugs tested positive for the disease. All of the affected ones are youngsters.

With 10 people confirmed to be infected, the health department is screening more people, including their family members. There are concerns that more people may be confirmed to be infected with the virus. The sudden surge in HIV cases within the same premise is a first in the state. The AIDS Control Society conducted a test in the prison last December. It was during this test that one among the drug gang members was confirmed to have AIDS.

Soon, the aid of the drug member also turned positive for the test. With this, the health department tested 10 other people in contact with them.

The shocking information came to light during a screening conducted by the AIDS Control Society two months ago. The screening was conducted among sex workers and regular drug users. HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sex and bodily fluids, including blood. Sharing syringes, blades, and other medical equipment can spread the infection. Health experts say that HIV is not transmitted through saliva or sweat.