STAFF REPORTER
Authorities in Ntungamo District have raised concerns about the rising number of new HIV/AIDS infections, attributing the increase to factors such as declining incomes, gender-based violence, and a multinational network that contributes to diverse infection rates.
Speaking on Thursday during a belated commemoration of World AIDS Day at the District Council Hall, Twesigye Nesterio, the District HIV/AIDS Focal Person and Health Educator, reported a surge in new infections, with at least 1,000 cases recorded since the beginning of the year.
He highlighted that the district’s location as a highway connecting at least four countries, along with the growth of towns and commercial centers, has heightened its vulnerability to HIV/AIDS transmission.
Zaina Nakasi, USAID South West Officer, pointed out that the fight against HIV/AIDS is being hampered by patients dropping out of anti-retroviral treatment (ART) programs. Many patients cannot be traced after abandoning the health centers where they initially received their medication.
Currently, approximately 900,000 people in Ntungamo District are on HIV/AIDS medication, but only about 10% of them have achieved viral suppression, meaning the virus is undetectable in their blood.
