Statistics from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) revealed that six HIV/AIDS cases were reported in the Maldives between January and October 2024, according to a Dhivehi language report published in Avas newspaper on December 2, 2024.
"This year marks the highest number of recorded AIDS cases since the disease was first identified in the Maldives," the newspaper reported.
Avas noted that HPA has increased surveillance and testing efforts following this year’s rise in AIDS cases.
"The Maldives identified its first AIDS patient 33 years ago, in 1991. Since then, 49 cases have been reported — 43 men and 7 women," the report stated.
The newspaper also highlighted that 16 Maldivians diagnosed with AIDS have passed away, while 33 others are currently undergoing treatment.
"AIDS is transmitted through unprotected extramarital sex, sharing syringes when injecting narcotics, transfusion of HIV-positive blood, breastfeeding, and sharing personal items like towels with an HIV/AIDS-infected person," Avas explained.
It further noted that antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been provided free of charge to people living with HIV/AIDS in the Maldives since 2004.
December 1 is observed as International AIDS Day worldwide.
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