Guyana today joined the global community in observing World AIDS Day, with Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony urging individuals “at risk” of contracting HIV to get tested and seek necessary treatment.
Over the past year, Guyana has reported 449 new cases of HIV, bringing the total number of individuals affected by the virus to more than 10,000. There are concerns that additional cases remain unreported due to a lack of testing.
“People who feel that they are at risk should come forward to get tested. Many are hesitant to visit clinics due to concerns about being seen by others. For those individuals, self-testing kits are available so you can test yourself at home. The crucial point is that you must know your status,” Minister Anthony stated during a World AIDS Day Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.
The Minister highlighted the significant progress Guyana has made in its fight against HIV/AIDS, emphasizing investments in treatments, including antiretroviral therapy (ART), which is readily available for those infected.
“If you are negative, you should adopt behaviors that maintain your negative status. If you are positive, do not hesitate; come into one of the clinics to begin treatment. This is very important,” he asserted.
Minister Anthony explained that consistent use of ART can lead to viral suppression, meaning the virus can become undetectable in a person’s system. “Virally suppressed means that with medication, the virus is at such a low level that we probably won’t be able to detect it. If you are virally suppressed, you cannot transmit the virus to your partner, which is why treatment is crucial,” he noted.
He emphasized the importance of adhering to treatment regimens and urged all Guyanese to take proactive measures to protect themselves. He expressed optimism that if the disease’s transmission is suppressed by 2030, Guyana could eliminate HIV/AIDS as a public health threat.
Globally, an estimated 40.8 million people are living with HIV, with over 340,000 cases reported in the Caribbean region. Minister Anthony reiterated the tools available for prevention, detection, and treatment, urging the public to take responsibility for their health.
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