Fight vs HIV/AIDS continues
The fight against HIV/AIDS is not yet over.
The trend for HIV transmission in the country, which was “low and slow”, before, has changed to hiding but growing.” The drastic growth of this virus is said to be epidemic that makes it alarming.
DOH Regional STI Coordinator Charity Perea revealed that there are 91 registered cases of HIV/AIDS infection in the Western Visayas region from 2002 to March of this year.
Of the 91 cases, the province of Iloilo has the highest number with 43 cases, followed by Negros with 32, Aklan with 10, Capiz with 4, and both Guimaras and Antique with 1.
“It’s not who you are but what you do that makes you vulnerable to HIV. Everyone must act responsibly,” said Perea.
Yesterday, May 16, advocates of the fight against HIV/AIDS joined in the celebration of the 27th International Aids Candlelight at the E.B. Treñas Blvd. Tabucan, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.
The AIDS Candlelight celebration is done to commemorate those people died because of HIV/AIDS; show support for the people living with HIVs (PLHIVs); raise awareness, decrease stigma and discrimination to PLHIVs; and to mobilize community involvement in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
According to the statistical data of DOH, people living with HIVs (PLHIVs) are composed of 24 seafarers; 7 domestic helpers; 6 land base contract workers; 2 paramedical workers; 1 entertainer; 4 waiters/bar tenders; 13 housewives; 2 students; 1 lawyer; 1 medical doctor; 2 nurses; 2 med reps; 2 drivers; 2 nautical grad.; 1 x-ray tech; 2 security guards; 3 office employees; 3 local entertainers; 1 freelance CSW; 1 engineer; 3 teachers; 2 fashion designers; 2 event organizer; 2 call center agent and 1 hotel employee.
Although HIV can not be totally eradicated, ARVs (Anti Retro Viral Drugs) have dramatically reduced death, illnesses and prolonged lives of PLHIVs without going to the state of AIDS. Free ARVs are now available in two treatment hubs, namely, WVMC in Iloilo City and CLMMRH in Bacolod City with support from the Global Fund.
“Early detection can make a lot of difference,” says Perea. She also suggest that people who suspect infection can ask for immediate assistance at Western Visayas Medical Center, Mandurriao, Iloilo City, one of the HIV testing centers in the region.
