Misconceptions about HIV still fuel discrimination, says APSACS chief at Red Run in Vijayawada

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Youth participating in the State-level Red Run Marathon-2026 organised by Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society in Vijayawada on Thursday. | Photo Credit: G.N. RAO

People should be aware of how HIV is transmitted, because misconceptions in this regard continue to contribute to discrimination, said Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) Project Director B. Smaran Raj.

Inaugurating the ‘Red Run Marathon-2026’ on BRTS Road in Vijayawada on Thursday (October 8, 2026), Mr. Smaran Raj said there was a need to create awareness about HIV transmission and prevention, particularly among the youth, to reduce the risk of new infections.

He encouraged youngsters to participate in awareness programmes, saying it would help spread accurate information and promote responsible behaviour.

The Red Run was held across all districts in the State, with the top three winners in the men’s and women’s categories from each district qualifying for the State-level event. The winners of the State-level competition would be selected for national-level marathon events, Mr. Smaran Raj said.

A large number of youngsters took part in the 5K run. In the men’s category, M. Naresh of GVD Degree College, Salur, Parvathipuram Manyam district, secured the first prize of ₹35,000. In the women’s category, E. Swathi of Chirala, Bapatla district, won the first prize.

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