The Ghana AIDS Commission’s (GAC) regional coordinator for Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo, Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim Bambilla, has lamented the quick spread of new HIV infections among the LGBT population in the Bono Region.
He stated that the current HIV prevalence among homosexuals in the area was 26%, meaning that 26 out of every 100 homosexuals had HIV.
In a Sunyani media interview, Mr. Bambilla stated that 6% of commercial sex workers in the area were HIV positive and voiced concern about the trend of infections among gay people in the area.
He explained that the GAC was currently providing Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to the vulnerable population, pointing out that gays and commercial sex workers were still at a higher risk of acquiring HIV.
Mr. Bambilla clarified that PrEP was a very effective drug that prevented HIV infection in the susceptible group.
He said that taking medicine consistently for six months will result in viral suppression and encouraged those living with HIV to make an effort to take their medication appropriately and on a regular basis.
According to Mr. Bambilla, the nation has achieved 89% viral suppression, which makes it more difficult for virus carriers to infect others.
He continued, “So, the medication is really and effectively working, and we are using the medication as prevention.”
Source: newsthemegh.com