Inusah Mohammed, a public health officer, has highlighted that while the rate of new Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections is no longer as high as it was during the peak of the pandemic, new cases continue to emerge annually, contributing to the growing number of individuals living with the virus.
“HIV is a condition that has no cure, so once you are infected, you remain in the pool of people with HIV. Year after year, new infections add to this pool. Even though the rate of infection is not as high compared to when the pandemic started, new cases are still being recorded,” he explained.
By the end of 2023, approximately 334,000 people in Ghana were living with HIV, though this figure only includes those who are aware of their status. In the same year, nearly 18,000 new infections were reported nationwide, underscoring the ongoing risk of transmission.
In the Upper East Region alone, over 4,000 individuals are currently receiving treatment for HIV. “If you look at the whole of Ghana, as of the end of 2023, we had about 334,000 people living with HIV, and this only includes those who know their status. For new infections in 2023, we recorded close to 18,000 cases nationwide. In the Upper East Region, a little over 4,000 people are currently on treatment,” Mr. Mohammed noted.
Modes of HIV Transmission
The public health officer pointed out that the primary mode of HIV transmission, both globally and in Ghana, remains unprotected sexual contact, which accounts for about 90% of all cases.
“About 90% of HIV infections globally and in Ghana are through unprotected sex with an infected partner. Other less common sources include sharing sharp objects like needles and transmission from an HIV-positive mother to her child during pregnancy, labor, or breastfeeding,” he explained.
Vulnerable Populations
Mr. Mohammed highlighted specific populations that are particularly vulnerable to HIV. Men who have sex with men and women who have sex with women face a higher rate of transmission due to factors such as the nature of sexual practices and the potential for undiagnosed infections.
Prevention Strategies
To reduce the spread of HIV, Mr. Mohammed emphasized the importance of prevention strategies. Abstinence remains the most effective method to prevent transmission. However, for those in relationships or married couples, the proper and consistent use of condoms is critical.
“Because about 90% of transmission occurs through unprotected sex, the best way to prevent it is abstinence. But you cannot tell a grown adult or married person to abstain, so the next best option is the proper and consistent use of condoms,” he advised.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of avoiding the sharing of needles or sharp objects, as the HIV virus can survive in dried blood for several days, posing a risk of transmission if someone comes into contact with a contaminated item.
By raising awareness and adopting these preventative measures, Ghana can continue to address the ongoing challenges posed by HIV and work toward reducing new infections.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
