Atwima Mponua District records 139 new HIV infections

The Atwima Mponua District in the Ashanti Region has recorded 139 new HIV infections, the second-highest number of new cases in the region. This development was disclosed during the official inauguration of a nine-member district committee of the Ghana AIDS Commission. The committee was established to lead the local response to the virus and coordinate public health interventions across the district.

District Chief Executive (DCE) Ibrahim Issahak, who inaugurated the committee, emphasized that the current infection rate requires urgent and decisive action. He stated that the primary objective of the new body is to halt the spread of the virus by intensifying public education and awareness. The committee will work to ensure that residents have access to accurate information regarding prevention strategies and the importance of regular testing to manage their health status.

Beyond education, the nine-member committee is tasked with addressing the social stigma associated with HIV and AIDS, which often prevents individuals from seeking help or treatment. Mr. Issahak noted that members must work closely with healthcare providers to improve access to life-saving treatment and support services. The initiative aims to create a more supportive environment for those living with the virus, encouraging them to seek care without fear of discrimination.

In his closing remarks, the DCE highlighted that the fight against HIV is a shared responsibility involving community leaders, health workers, and the general public. The committee is expected to collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure that prevention and support programmes are effectively implemented at the community level. This coordinated approach is seen as a vital step in reducing the high prevalence of infections and improving the overall health outcomes for the people of Atwima Mponua.