7 new cases of HIV/AIDS recorded in the country

The country has recorded 7 new HIV Positive cases  this year.

This is an increase from 3 cases that were previously detected.

Deputy Secretary Health Improvement, Dr. Nemia Bainivalu announced this during the launching of the World Aids Day in Honiara today.

” Last year we recorded 3 cases. This year, we have 7 new cases which are 1 female and 6 males.

“This brings the total of number of HIV cases recorded in the country from 1994 till now to 47.  Most of these cases range between 19 to 25 years of age, which is a very sexually active age group. ”

Dr. Bainivalua adds that from the total number recorded, 20 patients are currently taking treatment.

” From the 47 cases recorded, 24 are still alive with 20 of them taking treatment.”

“We have lost track of others as they’ve gone missing and did not follow up with us for treatments,” he said.

With the increase in recorded cases, the Ministry of Health is also calling on  persons who have been identified for testing to come forward for testing.

Dr. Bainivalu said most of the cases detected were from contacts given by current patients.

” I want to encourage and assure persons that have been identified by the Ministry to come forward for testing that your privacy will be confidential and will be protected.”

“We will not give out any of your information’s to anyone, not unless if it is required to be provided to responsible bodies to get you treatments.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Bainivalu also assures that the Ministry will be working closely with the HIV Program and key stakeholders to address the issues linked to the increase in number of cases on different levels of the society.

ENDS//