Plateau recorded 581 HIV deaths, 2,270 new infections in 2023, says Health Commissioner

The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cletus Shurkuk has disclosed that the state recorded 2,260 new cases of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections and 581 related deaths in 2023.

Shurkuk made the disclosure on Saturday in Jos during an event to commemorate the 2024 World AIDS Day, observed globally on December 1.

This year’s theme: “Take the Right Path,” highlights the importance of making informed choices in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Shurkuk said: “Currently, 45,835 people in Plateau are living with HIV and are on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).”

He stated that the state government had expanded HIV testing services to over 900 healthcare facilities and intensified awareness campaigns on prevention and treatment.

READ ALSO: Ex-Aviation Minister, Chidoka, dumps PDP, vows to focus on electoral reforms

Efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV have also seen significant progress, with 46,828 pregnant women tested between January and June 2024.

He highlighted that Plateau State had achieved the 88-98-95 target as it works towards meeting the UNAIDS global goal of 99-95-95 by 2030—a critical step towards controlling the HIV epidemic.

He said: “For us to truly take the right path, there must be increased comprehensive sex education and awareness, particularly among young people, who are key to shaping a more informed future generation.”

The Commissioner called for greater community engagement, improved access to healthcare, and further investment in research and innovation to combat the disease.

He praised the development partners for their collaboration in delivering quality healthcare services across the state.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now