3,138 Fresh HIV Infections Registered In Anambra Over 10 Months

The Anambra State Aids Control Agency (ANSACA) says no fewer than 3,138 tested positive out of 257,953 individuals tested for HIV in Anambra between January and October 2024.

Dr Afam Obidike, Commissioner for Health, Anambra, gave the statistics on Thursday in Awka during a media briefing to mark World AIDS Day observed every Dec. 1, since 1988.

World AIDS Day is commemorated globally to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS and honor the lives affected by the epidemic.

This year’s commemoration had the global theme: ‘Take the Rights Path, Sustain HIV Response, Stop HIV Among Children to End AIDS in Nigeria by 2030′.

Obidike said the state recorded significant strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS with the extension of comprehensive services to 175 healthcare facilities across the state.

He said: “From January to October 2024 alone, 257,953 individuals were tested for HIV, with 3,138 (1.2 per cent) newly testing positive.

“An impressive 99 per cent of those who tested positive, were successfully linked to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Currently, 49,067 individuals living with HIV have been placed on Anti-retroviral treatment.

“As part of HIV prevention efforts, the state, through its partners’ support, has distributed 1,406,744 condoms and 26,640 lubricants to support safe practices among key populations and the general public.

“These distributions underline the state and its partners’ commitment to mitigating transmission risks and supporting comprehensive prevention strategies,” he said.

NAN