Statistics from the Ministry of Health have revealed Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases have increased this year compared to 2017.
The statistics show 37 Maldivians are currently HIV positive, which is an increase compared to the 25 Maldivians who were reported as HIV positive in 2017. The statistics show there are 31 men and six women who are currently HIV positive, with 22 receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) to control HIV infection. The statistics also show 22 Maldivians have died from HIV this year and various medical tests have found 450 expatriates who are positive for HIV.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has stated behaviours that contribute to the spread of HIV is increasing in the Maldives. HIV attacks cells that help the body fight infection, making a person more vulnerable to other infections and diseases. It is spread by contact with certain bodily fluids of a person with HIV, most commonly during unprotected sex, or through sharing injection equipment, and rarely through blood transfusions.
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the late stage of HIV infection that occurs when the body's immune system is badly damaged because of the virus.
In a statement on World AIDS Day, World Health Organisation (WHO) stated HIV remains a major public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. WHO announced that the theme for this year's World AIDS Day is End Inequalities, End AIDS, and called on global leaders and citizens to rally to confront the inequalities that drive AIDS and to reach people who are currently not receiving essential HIV services.