March 01, Colombo (LNW): In a concerning revelation, the National Sexually Transmitted Diseases and AIDS Prevention Programme has disclosed a significant 14.3% increase in reported new HIV infections. According to Director Dr. Janaki Vidanapathirana, the rise in cases is notably higher in 2023 when compared to the preceding year, 2022.
Dr. Vidanapathirana revealed that in 2023, a total of 694 new HIV cases were identified, marking a stark contrast to the previous year’s figures. The majority of these cases, constituting 88%, were found in men, numbering 611. Additionally, 81 cases involving HIV-infected women were reported, representing 11.7% of the total cases. The overall count of infected individuals in society has now reached 4,100, indicating a worrisome prevalence.
Medical experts emphasized that symptoms of the virus may take up to eight years to manifest. Stressing the importance of proactive measures, they recommended HIV testing, especially for individuals engaging in risky sexual behavior. Notably, the testing process has been simplified with the introduction of the Know4Sure app, allowing individuals to conduct the test in the comfort of their homes. Through this app, users can conveniently order the necessary test kit, which will be delivered directly to their doorstep. The initiative aims to enhance accessibility to testing and encourage early detection and intervention in the face of the escalating HIV infection rates.
