Sentinel surveillance in HIV is conducted at Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs). Which population group is classified as a 'Bridge Population' in India's NACP surveillance?
- A People Living with HIV (PLHIV) on antiretroviral therapy
- B Male clients of female sex workers and injecting drug users who also have sex with their wives ✓
- C Antenatal clinic (ANC) attendees representing the general population
- D Long-distance truck drivers only
Correct answer: B. Male clients of female sex workers and injecting drug users who also have sex with their wives
Explanation
In India's NACP framework, 'bridge populations' are groups that serve as conduits of HIV transmission from high-risk groups (core groups: FSW, MSM, PWID) to the general population. Key bridge populations include: male clients of female sex workers (paying for sex), long-distance truck drivers, migrant workers, and injecting drug users who also have sex with regular partners. Understanding bridge populations is crucial for designing targeted interventions that prevent HIV from spreading beyond concentrated epidemic settings.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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