Health authorities in the Ayensuano District have recorded 76 new HIV cases between January and October 2025, following testing of 2,910 residents, raising concerns about ongoing transmission and access to treatment.
Within the same period, 30 pregnant women tested HIV-positive out of 1,571 expectant mothers screened during antenatal care visits. This represents a 1.9 percent positivity rate among pregnant women, highlighting the importance of early testing and treatment to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
According to district health data, the total number of people living with HIV in Ayensuano now stands at 628. However, only about 250 individuals are currently receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), leaving more than half of diagnosed patients without life-saving medication.
Health experts warn that low treatment coverage increases the risk of illness, HIV-related deaths, and further spread of the virus, as people who are not on treatment are more likely to transmit HIV. When taken consistently, ART suppresses the virus and makes it impossible to pass on through sexual contact.
The data also suggests that HIV prevalence is higher among the general population than among pregnant women, indicating that men, young people, and other groups may not be testing regularly. Routine testing among pregnant women through antenatal services has helped detect infections early, but similar efforts are needed to reach the wider community.
Public health officials say testing alone is not enough. Greater emphasis is needed on linking people who test positive to care, ensuring they start treatment promptly, and supporting them to stay on medication.
Residents are being encouraged to know their HIV status, seek early treatment, and avoid stigma, which remains one of the biggest barriers preventing people from accessing care.
Health workers also stress that HIV is no longer a death sentence. With early diagnosis and consistent treatment, people living with HIV can lead long, healthy lives and protect their partners and children.
Public Health Message
- HIV testing is free and confidential at designated health facilities
- Early treatment saves lives and prevents transmission
- Pregnant women should attend antenatal care early
- Stigma discourages treatment—support, don’t discriminate
