Medical camp held for migrant workers in Perumbavoor

Kochi: As concerns about increasing HIV positive cases amongst migrant labourers in Perumbavoor grow, health department, along with Kerala State AIDS Control Society (KSACS), organised a medical camp in which around 3,000 migrant workers participated in the area on Sunday.The camp, Arogyolsavam 2026, also witnessed participation from other departments and 21 sessions were conducted for workers to create awareness on various aspects, including healthy living and legal support available to them.
During a session on AIDS led by AHF India Cares programme head Dr V Sam Prasad, some migrant workers admitted to having multiple sexual partners. He advised them to adopt safe sex practices, such as using condoms. Participants received free condoms after the session.There were awareness sessions on oral hygiene, menstrual hygiene, skin infections, immunisation for children and other health issues affecting workers. Many raised questions about symptoms of tuberculosis, treatment available and expenses involved.Health screening was held and necessary medicines were distributed. KSACS sources said they would continue to hold camps for workers.The camp was held after locals turned against migrant workers over drug abuse and flesh trade in the area.