Health authorities in the Bolgatanga Municipality are raising fresh concerns over rising HIV cases, noting that stigma and limited knowledge about the disease continue to discourage many residents from seeking timely testing and treatment. Speaking on A1 Radio, the Municipal HIV/TB Focal Person, Ruth Atarivi, said these challenges remain some of the biggest obstacles in the fight against HIV in the area.
According to her, many people still lack basic understanding of HIV and its management, a gap that affects their willingness to voluntarily visit health facilities for testing. She noted that although HIV testing is free and widely available, residents often hesitate to request a test for fear of being judged or perceived negatively by others.
“Stigma is another thing. Someone wants to come and test—the test is free—but for them to even walk to the facility and boldly tell you they want to test for HIV is something they cannot gather the courage to do,” she lamented.
Madam Atarivi added that despite the availability of testing services at all levels of care—including CHPS compounds—many individuals still struggle to approach health workers for support. “These tests are always available. When you come and tell us you want to run it, we’ll just do it for you. You don’t need to pass through any protocol before getting it done,” she assured.
She emphasized that stigma remains a powerful deterrent, even though early testing is essential for preventing the spread of the virus and improving health outcomes for those who test positive. She encouraged residents to take advantage of the accessible services, reminding the public that individuals can check their HIV status every three months as part of routine personal health care.
Her remarks come as the municipality continues to record an increase in new infections, prompting renewed efforts to promote testing and break the cycle of silence, fear, and misinformation. The sensitization forms part of activities ahead of this year’s World AIDS Day on December 1.
Source: a1radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
