Maldives records 71 HIV-positive Maldivians since 1991, health minister says
Since then, 71 Maldivians have been diagnosed with HIV, of whom 53 are currently living, he said.
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A total of 71 Maldivians have tested positive for HIV since the country recorded its first case among a Maldivian 35 years ago, Health Minister Dr Geela Ali said on Wednesday.
Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office, the minister said the first HIV-positive Maldivian was identified in 1991.
Since then, 71 Maldivians have been diagnosed with HIV, of whom 53 are currently living, she said.
The minister said HIV transmission in the Maldives occurs mainly through unprotected sexual contact. She said there are also groups considered to be at higher risk of transmission, including people who use drugs.
As a result, HIV prevention programmes are focused more heavily on higher-risk groups than on the general population, she said.
“Compared with global rates, the number of people living with HIV among the Maldivian population is low,” the minister said. “I would say the programmes being implemented to control the disease are progressing well.”
The minister said people diagnosed with HIV are provided with appropriate medication by the government.
Authorities also conduct contact tracing and provide information on HIV transmission and prevention, she said. Counselling is also provided to families where required as part of the programme.
