Ghana Records 34,000 New HIV Cases in First Nine Months of 2024 – Ghana Health Service
The Ghana Health Service’s (GHS) National HIV and AIDS Control Programme has reported over 34,000 new HIV infections from January through the third quarter of 2024. This significant figure underscores the urgent need for heightened public testing and awareness campaigns, according to the Programme Manager, Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo.
During the launch of the 2024 World AIDS Day event, organized by the Ghana AIDS Commission, Dr. Ayisi Addo emphasized the importance of regular testing, revealing that 1.3 million people were screened nationwide within the first nine months of the year. He noted, “The number of new positive cases identified during this period alone reached 34,000, underscoring a critical challenge to our goal of ending HIV by 2030.”
Increasing Prevention and Education Efforts
Dr. Ayisi expressed concern over the rising infection rate, calling for sexually active individuals to take proactive measures to protect their health. He emphasized the use of condoms and encouraged mutual fidelity or abstinence as ways to curb the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. He also urged individuals living with HIV to stay committed to their treatments to prevent further transmissions.
The event, which included a candlelight procession to honor those who have lost their lives to AIDS, highlighted Ghana’s continued efforts in addressing the epidemic. Dr. Atuahene Kyeremeh, Director General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, reiterated the commission’s commitment to working with partners across the health sector, with a renewed focus on screening, treatment, and public education.
World AIDS Day 2024 Activities
Ahead of World AIDS Day on December 1, themed “Take the Rights Path,” the Ghana AIDS Commission has announced several planned events. These include a grand durbar in Accra on December 2, gathering key representatives from the Ghana Health Service, Ministry of Health, UNAIDS, and the National Association of Persons Living with HIV (NAP+). This year’s theme encourages nations to commit to accessible and equitable services for individuals affected by HIV.
The 2024 World AIDS Day theme serves as a timely reminder of Ghana’s commitment to fighting HIV and supporting the well-being of individuals living with the virus through public health initiatives, treatment options, and comprehensive education programs.
