DOH RECORDS 296 NEW HIV CASES IN ILOCOS REGION

THE Department of Health (DOH) disclosed an additional of 296 new HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) cases recorded from January 1, 2023 to July 30, 2023 in the Iocos region.

This as the region continues its advocacy to raise awareness and eradicate stigma about HIV and AIDS by empowering communities to be involved in all aspects of HIV plans and programs.

Assistant Regional Director Antonio M. Albornoz, who led the celebration of World AIDS Day in Bantay, Ilocos Sur last November 29, 2023, said that in order to realize the goals of eliminating AIDS by 2030, it is important to involve community leadership.

“Dapat kasama natin ang ating komunidad mula sa pagpaplano, policy-making, funding at monitoring activities as this will help to reduce the stigma and strengthens psychosocial support for patients,” Albornoz said.

He said that by urging communities to lead and support in the HIV program, we can improve referral systems for HIV-positive patients and most importantly we can reach those in the underserved, marginalized and hard-to-reach areas.

“Napakaimportante na lahat ay involved at nagtutulungan sa pagtugon sa laban konta HIV upang makagawa tayo ng sustainable at efficient na mga programa base sa pangangailangan ng isang komunidad,” he said.

According to the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU), 45 new HIV cases were recorded in the month of July 2023, with Pangasinan having the highest number of confirmed cases with 28, followed by Ilocos Sur with 6, Ilocos Norte and La Union with 4 cases each, and Dagupan City with 3.

From 1984 to present, 3,051 individuals were diagnosed with HIV cases in the region.

Infectious Disease Cluster head Rheuel C. Bobis said that HIV-related mortality has decreased by 70%.

“Even with this development, we must continue our efforts towards an HIV-free future through a collective commitment, unwavering dedication, and comprehensive community involvement,” the DOH regional official said.

“By fostering an environment where every individual with HIV/AIDS is given importance, supported, and granted the opportunity to thrive, we can ensure that no one is left behind,” he emphasized.

Among the activities conducted during the World’s AIDS Day Celebration in Bantay, Ilocos Sur were HIV screening, an AVP contest for Best in World AIDS Day, Sayaw Galaw Contest Laban Sa HIV/AID contest, search for the Bantay HIV Ambassador/Ambassadress 2023, and Paskuhan sa Bantay HIV.

Winners were given various cash prizes amounting to P1,000 up to P10,000..