Hwange district records highest new HIV infections

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HWANGE district in Matabeleland North has recorded the highest number of new HIV infections in the province since January, followed by Tsholotsho and Lupane.

HWANGE district in Matabeleland North has recorded the highest number of new HIV infections in the province since January, followed by Tsholotsho and Lupane.

BY NQOBANI NDLOVU

Binga had the lowest number of people who tested HIV positive, a report from the National Aids Council (NAC) Matabeleland North chapter released on Tuesday shows.

The Matabeleland North NAC second quarter programme update, however, shows that Binga recorded the lowest figure of new HIV infections since few people tested compared to Hwange.

“All the districts had HIV testing and counselling (HTC) initiatives during the quarter. Hwange had the highest number of HTC newly tested clients (5 024) while Bubi had the lowest (1 567).

“Binga had the lowest number (131) of clients tested HIV positive while Hwange had the highest (508).There is need to strengthen HIV prevention services in all the districts,” the report reads in part.

In Tsholotsho, out of 3 067 people that went for HIV testing, 355 tested positive. In Lupane, 354 came out positive out of the 2 731 that tested for HIV.

Hwange has also been reported as having recorded the highest number of new sexually transmitted infections in Matabeleland North despite the mining town topping the list in the distribution of condoms in that province.

The report also shows there has been an increase in the number of HIV patients initiated on the antiretroviral treatment (ART) programme, compared to the first quarter.

“By the end of June 2015, there were 57 816 clients on ART compared to 56 248 on ART during the first quarter of 2015. This was an increase of 1 568 clients or almost 3% initiated within the three months of the second quarter.”

Cases of sexual abuse remained prevalent in Matabeleland North, the report adds, with Tsholotsho and Lupane recording the highest percentage at 28% and 27% respectively.

“Cases of sexual abuse remained prevalent in the province with Tsholotsho having the highest cases at 28% while Bubi contributed the lowest cases at 2%,” the report adds.