Ghana records 34,000 new HIV cases in first nine months of 2024

The Ghana Health Service’s National HIV and AIDS Control Programme has reported a surge in HIV cases, with over 34,000 new infections detected between January and September 2024.

This figure was shared by Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, Programme Manager of the control initiative, during the launch of World AIDS Day 2024, an event organized by the Ghana AIDS Commission.

Speaking on the rise in cases, Dr. Ayisi Addo highlighted the importance of regular HIV screening, revealing that approximately 1.3 million people underwent testing during this period.

“Between January and the third quarter alone, the number of people we identified as positives through our testing activities was 34,000,” he noted.

The launch of World AIDS Day 2024, themed “Take the Rights Path,” featured a solemn candlelight procession to honor the lives lost to AIDS.

Observed globally on December 1 each year, World AIDS Day urges nations to renew their dedication to preventing new HIV infections and providing necessary healthcare services to those living with the virus.

The Ghana AIDS Commission has scheduled a grand durbar in Accra on December 2, bringing together representatives from various sectors, including the Ghana Health Service, the Ministry of Health, UNAIDS, and the National Association of Persons Living with HIV (NAP+), in an effort to bolster nationwide support for the eradication of HIV.

Dr. Ayisi Addo expressed deep concern over the year’s infection rate, emphasizing the challenge it presents to Ghana’s ambition to end HIV transmission by 2030.

He urged the public to actively participate in free testing and treatment programs, stressing that timely treatment is essential in suppressing the virus and preventing further spread.

Participants at the launch echoed support for intensified public health efforts, with hopes that the 2024 World AIDS Day events will strengthen Ghana’s push towards the 2030 elimination goal.