Surge in HIV Infections in Volta Region: Key Findings and Recommendations
The Volta region reported 778 new HIV infections in 2023, accounting for 4.4% of Ghana’s total. The region shows a 1.35% adult HIV prevalence rate, with significant higher rates in specific districts. The Ghana AIDS Commission emphasizes the need for enhanced prevention, education, and ART coverage to combat the issue.
In 2023, the Volta region reported 778 new HIV infections, constituting 4.4 percent of the total 17,774 new cases in Ghana, as stated by Mary Naa Asheley Anyomi, the Volta Regional Technical Coordinator with the Ghana AIDS Commission. The breakdown revealed that 230 were male adults aged 15 and above, and 468 were female adults in the same age group. Additionally, 214 were young individuals aged 15 to 24, while children aged zero to 14 accounted for 80 infections.
During a courtesy meeting with James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, Anyomi noted that the region’s adult HIV prevalence stands at 1.35 percent, ranking it ninth nationally. Among key populations, the prevalence rate is significantly higher with 4.3 percent for female sex workers and 28.9 percent for men who have sex with men.
The Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) coverage in the region is at 57.1 percent, with 58.0 percent for adults and 41.5 percent for children. Notably, Central Tongu, Ketu North, Ketu South, and North Tongu accounted for 42.03 percent of new infections, with certain districts like Kpando and Central Tongu exhibiting prevalence rates surpassing both regional and national averages.
Anyomi emphasized the urgency of enhancing prevention programs, advocating for increased condom use and the reduction of stigma surrounding HIV. She underscored the importance of educational campaigns through diverse media to foster awareness and understanding regarding HIV prevention, transmission, and treatment.
Further initiatives include the expansion of HIV self-testing services targeting underserved populations, and community testing programs tailored for major local events. Victor Ntumy from the Ghana Coalition of NGOs in Health highlighted challenges such as inaccessible areas and financial constraints hindering outreach efforts.
In response to these developments, Minister Gunu expressed gratitude for the commitment shown by health stakeholders and stressed the government’s prioritization of health initiatives. He called for ongoing collaboration to effectively combat the spread of HIV, particularly among youth.
In summary, the alarming rise in HIV infections in the Volta region highlights significant public health challenges. The increased focus on prevention, awareness, and education is essential in combating the stigma surrounding HIV and improving ART coverage. Collaborative efforts among various stakeholders and community engagement are crucial. The government remains committed to enhancing health initiatives, particularly among vulnerable populations to minimize the spread of HIV.
Original Source: mobile.ghanaweb.com
