Dr Anthony Ashinyo, Volta Regional HIV/TB Coordinator, has said the absence of adequate resources to undertake “aggressive education” is a reason why the region has a high HIV prevalence rate of 2.7 per cent.

 

Volta and Brong Ahafo regions jointly topped the prevalence list of the 2016 HIV sentinel survey report.

 

Dr Ahinyo said in previous years, the region recorded low prevalence because there were regular outreach programmes adding that funds are needed to help reverse the current negative trend.

 

In 2015, HIV prevalence in the region was 1.7 per cent at the four sentinel sites-Ho, Hohoe, Krachi and North Tongu.

 

Dr Asinyo said the “fear factor” that used to be associated with the infection was gone and the knowledge that anti-retroviral drugs are available is making some people live “irresponsible” lives.

 

He said the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) target is to intensify education on primary prevention and behavioural change.

 

Out of 1,603 people tested in the Volta Region, 8.8 per cent of the population- 44 were positive, forming a prevalence of 2.7.

 

The HIV Sentinel Survey, which started in 1992, is a cross sectional survey targeting pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at selected sites.

 

GNA