DILI, 24 may 2023 ( TATOLI)– The National Institute for Combating of HIV – AIDS ( INCSIDA, IP) recorded 1,830 positive cases of HIV-AIDS from 2003 to 2023 in Timor – Leste.
The President of INCSIDA, IP Atanasio de Jesus, said the positive cases of HIV – AIDS continued to increase from year to year, saying many young people are still involved in free sexual intercourse without using condoms, besides many young people are luck aware of HIV.
“INCSIDA, IP continues to socialize the HIV/AIDS disease to the public and young people to use condoms when having sex to stay away from this contagious and deadly disease but many people do not have awareness, therefore, positive cases of HIV-AIDS continue to increase from year to year in Timor – Leste,” the President of INCSIDA IP, told TATOLI in his office at Pantai Kelapa, Dili, on wednesday.
He added that, from the total of 1,830 positive cases, composes of 1,009 patients who were still actively receiving intensive treatment, 411 had lost contact, 192 had died and 42 patients had been undergoing the treatment overseas.
“We continue to assist them with counseling, and we urge patients who have lost contact to come for treatment in order to prolong your life, INCSIDA IP, will keep your identity secret and serve you sincerely without discrimination,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, from 1830 cases of HIV – Aids which consist of all municipalities such as; Dili 1372 cases, Aileu 13, Ainaro 30, Baucau 48, Bobonaro 111, Covalima 90, Ermera 32, Likasa 16, Lautem 16, Manatuto 17, Manufahi 18, Oecusse 53 and Vilke 14 cases.
HIV is human immunodeficiency virus is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).
There is currently no effective cure. Once people get HIV, they have it for life. But with proper medical care, HIV can be controlled.
People with HIV who get effective HIV treatment can live long, healthy lives and protect their partners.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Nelia B.