By Oscar Ramjeet
Caribbean Net News Special Correspondent
Email: oscar@caribbeannetnews.com  

ST JOHN’S, Antigua: The Ministry of Health in Antigua and Barbuda is reportedly very concerned about the increase in deadly HIV/AIDS cases in the country.

The Antigua Sun reported on Wednesday that, last year, during the January-June period, there were 24 reported HIV cases. This year, during the same period, this number has almost doubled, with 45 cases being reported.

In response to this, the AIDS Secretariat is emphasising the importance of safe sex practices. Deputy AIDS Programme Manager Delcora Willliams said the AIDS Secretariat wants people to know their status. She said, “Finding out your status and taking care of ourselves should be the most important things to anyone. People need to remember that being HIV positive is not a death sentence and, with treatment, their lives can be prolonged."

According to Williams, a total of 66 individuals were diagnosed with the virus last year, which was one less than in the year 2000. This total was reduced by less than half in 2001, but has been steadily increasing over the years. Since the disease was discovered in Antigua and Barbuda in 1985, 726 people have tested positive.

Williams warned that if Antiguans and Barbudans refuse to adhere to the warnings of the AIDS Secretariat and other such organisations, the twin island state may have the largest number of HIV/AIDS this year.