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

Youth participating in the state-wide Red Run Marathon-2026 organized by Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society in Vijayawada on Thursday. | Photo credit: GN RAO

People should be aware of how HIV is transmitted as 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’ at BRTS Road in Vijayawada on Thursday (October 8, 2026), Mr. Smaran Raj said that there is a need to create awareness about HIV transmission and prevention, especially among the youth, to reduce the risk of new infections.

He urged young people to participate in awareness programmes, saying it would help spread accurate information and encourage responsible behaviour.

The Red Run was held in all districts in the state, with the top three finishers in the male and female categories from each district qualifying for the state-level event. The winners of the state level competition will be selected for the national level marathon races, said Mr. Smaran Raj.

5K Run Winners

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

Published – October 9, 2026 11:43 AM IST