Health authorities in the Western Region have raised concern over a steady rise in new HIV infections, with data from the Ghana AIDS Control Commission showing that more than 1,000 new cases were recorded in 2024 alone.
The Western Regional HIV Coordinator, Dr Mrs Felicia Amihere, disclosed that the vast majority of infections—about 80 per cent—were transmitted through sexual contact, while 15 per cent resulted from mother-to-child transmission and five per cent from the use of sharp objects such as needles.
Speaking to the media in Huni-Valley, Dr Amihere said the figures underscored the urgent need for renewed public education on sexually transmitted diseases, particularly HIV. She urged individuals to take personal responsibility for their sexual health by adopting preventive behaviours.
She encouraged the public to embrace the well-known “ABC” approach to HIV prevention—abstinence, being faithful to one uninfected partner, and the correct and consistent use of condoms. According to her, widespread abstinence alone could drastically reduce infection rates.
Dr Amihere expressed concern over changing sexual behaviours, noting that technology and misconceptions about contraception were contributing to risky practices. She explained that some people now use mobile applications to easily access sexual partners, while others rely on emergency contraceptives and neglect condom use, increasing their vulnerability to infection.
Despite HIV being detected in Ghana as far back as 1986, she said infection rates remained troubling, largely due to socio-economic factors. She pointed to mining communities such as Tarkwa Nsuaem and Prestea Huni-Valley as hotspots, explaining that increased economic activity often led to higher levels of transactional sex. Districts in Wassa Amenfi, previously considered low-prevalence areas, are also seeing rising cases due to expanded mining operations.
Dr Amihere emphasised that HIV was a medical condition, not a spiritual affliction, and could be effectively managed with the right treatment. She advised those who tested positive to adhere strictly to their antiretroviral therapy and to avoid unproven drugs marketed as cures.
“There is currently no cure for HIV/AIDS,” she warned, adding that patients who abandon prescribed treatment for so-called miracle remedies often progress to AIDS, sometimes with fatal consequences.
She called for sustained public education, regular testing and responsible behaviour to curb the spread of the virus in the region and across the country.
