The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has reported that there are currently 22 individuals undergoing treatment for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in the Maldives.
On the occasion of World AIDS Day, the HPA shared information revealing that the number of AIDS cases has reached 40 as of December 31, 2022, including six women and 34 men. Among them, 15 individuals have died to the disease, while 22 are presently receiving treatment, according to the agency.
AIDS represents the advanced stage of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, occurring when the immune system is severely damaged. The first detection of HIV in the Maldives dates back to 1991. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been provided in the Maldives since 2004, and it is administered completely free of charge. In addition, the Maldives offers HIV infection prevention treatment.
This year's World AIDS Day theme called Let Communities Lead aims to unite efforts in AIDS treatment, service provision, support for individuals with the disease, and disease prevention, encouraging community-led initiatives. HPA, Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital (KRH), Kulhudhuffushi City Council, Society for Health Education (SHE), Mission for Migrants Workers Maldives (MMWM), Vibe Youth, and Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) will organise various activities in connection with World AIDS Day.
The government expresses concern that entrenched habits within the small population of the Maldives contribute to the spread of AIDS. Health experts recommend regular testing with safety precautions to prevent the life-threatening disease. HIV weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Transmission occurs through contact with specific bodily fluids, primarily during unprotected sexual intercourse or sharing injection equipment, and rarely through blood transfusions.