The number of HIV and AIDS cases in Papua New Guinea is on the rise with 18 new infections detected daily.
According to the Deputy Secretary for the Department of Health Dr Ken Wai, more than 77,000 people are currently living with HIV in the country.
Dr Wai revealed these alarming statistics during the World Aids Day celebration at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby on Friday.
More than 49,000 are on anti-retroviral therapy (ART), while one out of every 100 pregnant mothers are expected to test positive and one out of three babies born will test positive for HIV.
“This figure will double if we do not act now to protect ourselves and prevent the spread of HIV,” Dr Wai said during the commemoration of the 37th World AIDS Day in Port Moresby.
A new National STI and HIV Strategy 2024 – 2028 focuses on three key areas including STI and HIV & AIDS prevention, early diagnosis and effective treatment, and strengthening systems and partnerships with the health authorities.
With the national theme ‘Empower the Rights Path to End HIV’, Wai said human rights is an integral part of HIV response in the country.
People Living with HIV (PLHIV) representative Mark Kitan addresses the need for everyone to be tested for HIV and he urged pregnant women to undertake this test.
The country director, UNAIDS in PNG, Manoela Manova emphasised that everyone has the right to health care.
“Recognising and protecting that right is critical to ensuring that everyone can access health services free from prejudice and judgement,” he said.