The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported over 34,000 new HIV infections between January and September 2024. This alarming figure highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the country in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, the Programme Manager for the National HIV and AIDS Control Programme, emphasized the need for widespread public testing and screening to address the rising number of cases. During a ceremony to mark the launch of the 2024 World AIDS Day event, Dr. Ayisi explained that about 1.3 million people were screened during the first nine months of the year, contributing to the identification of the 34,000 new HIV-positive individuals.
He expressed concern about the high number of infections, which could jeopardize Ghana’s goal of ending the epidemic by 2030. Dr. Ayisi called on sexually active individuals to take responsibility for their health by using condoms correctly and consistently, noting that abstinence and being faithful to one’s partner are also effective preventive measures.
“The safest way to protect each other is to be faithful to your partner. Reduce new infections by behaving responsibly or abstaining from sexual activities,” Dr. Ayisi said, urging people living with HIV to adhere to their treatment regimens to prevent further transmission.
The Director-General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, Dr. Atuahene Kyeremeh, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to working with various stakeholders to achieve the national target of ending the HIV epidemic by 2030. He stressed the importance of screening and treatment for those already infected, highlighting the availability of free and effective treatment to help suppress the virus.
As part of the World AIDS Day celebrations, a series of events will take place, including a grand durbar in Accra on December 2, 2024. The event will feature representatives from the Ghana Health Service, the Ministry of Health, UNAIDS, and the National Association of Persons Living with HIV (NAP+).
World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1, serves as a reminder for countries to renew their commitment to preventing new HIV infections and providing essential services to individuals living with the virus. The theme for World AIDS Day 2024 is “Take the Rights Path.”
The Ghana AIDS Commission continues to encourage the public to take advantage of free HIV testing and treatment services as part of the ongoing efforts to combat the virus.
