The Ghana AIDS Commission’s Western Regional Technical Coordinator, Dramani Yakubu, has raised concerns about a troubling increase in HIV/AIDS cases in the region.
He reported that the Commission is currently documenting an average of four new infections daily, a trend he characterized as alarming.
In the previous year, the region recorded 1,235 new HIV/AIDS cases, significantly surpassing the Commission’s target of keeping annual infections below 500.
While 23,338 individuals are undergoing treatment, the rise in new infections remains a significant challenge.
“The fact that these individuals are receiving treatment is not the main issue. Our primary concern is the escalating number of new infections, which requires urgent attention,” he emphasized.
Mr. Yakubu also noted that women are disproportionately affected, with 65% of new cases involving females. He explained that this vulnerability is largely due to biological factors rather than any wrongdoing on their part.
He urged the public, especially the youth, to prioritize safe sexual practices, including the use of protection, to mitigate the rise in infections.
“Unprotected sex is a major contributor to the spread of HIV, and it’s essential that we all take responsibility to protect ourselves and our communities,” he advised.
Despite ongoing efforts to reduce new infections, the current surge in cases poses a critical challenge for the Ghana AIDS Commission in achieving its objectives.
