The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cletus Shurkuk, has revealed that the state recorded 2,270 new cases of HIV infections and 581 related deaths in 2023.
Dr. Shurkuk disclosed this during an event in Jos on Saturday to mark the 2024 World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1. This year’s theme, *“Take the Right Path,”* focuses on informed choices in combating HIV/AIDS.
“Currently, 45,835 people in Plateau State are living with HIV and are on Antiretroviral Therapy,” Shurkuk stated.
He added that the state government had expanded HIV testing to over 900 healthcare facilities and intensified awareness campaigns to encourage prevention and treatment.
Efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission have also shown progress, with 46,828 pregnant women tested between January and June 2024.
Dr. Shurkuk highlighted that Plateau State has achieved the 88-98-95 target in its HIV control efforts and is working towards the UNAIDS global goal of 99-95-95 by 2030.
“For us to truly take the right path, there must be increased comprehensive sex education and awareness, particularly among young people, who are key to shaping a more informed future generation,” he emphasized.
He also called for better community involvement, improved healthcare access, and more investment in research to tackle the disease effectively.
The commissioner praised development partners for their support in providing quality healthcare services across the state.
The 2024 World AIDS Day serves as a reminder for individuals, governments, and organizations to focus on prevention, treatment access, and community-driven initiatives in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
