Josiah
From January to the third quarter of 2024, over 34,000 new HIV cases were recorded, according to the National HIV and AIDS Control Programme of the Ghana Health Service.
Programme manager Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo emphasized the importance of public testing and screening, reporting that approximately 1.3 million people were screened within this period. “Between January and the third quarter alone, we identified 34,000 new cases through our testing efforts,” he announced at the Ghana AIDS Commission’s 2024 World AIDS Day launch, which included a candlelight vigil honoring those lost to AIDS.
World AIDS Day, observed each year on December 1, reminds nations to renew their commitment to preventing new HIV infections and ensuring essential resources for people living with HIV worldwide. The 2024 theme, “Take the Rights Path,” aligns with Ghana’s commitment to eradicate HIV by 2030, a goal Dr. Ayisi acknowledged faces a significant challenge due to the current rate of infections.
Dr. Ayisi urged sexually active individuals to prioritize their health by consistently using condoms to prevent HIV and other STDs. “The safest approach is to be faithful to your partner. Reduce new infections by practicing healthy behaviors or abstaining from sexual activities,” he advised, encouraging people living with HIV to adhere to treatment to help prevent further transmission.
Ghana AIDS Commission Director General, Dr. Atuahene Kyeremeh, reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to collaborating with stakeholders toward the shared goal of eliminating HIV by 2030. He urged the public to take advantage of free treatment options that effectively suppress the virus, highlighting the importance of regular screening and treatment for those infected.
Source:Omanghana.com
