On December 1st, the World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with communities and partners, will observe World AIDS Day 2023 under the theme “Let communities lead.”
Dr. Nishan Gunarathna from the National STD/AIDS Control Programme revealed that 485 individuals tested positive for HIV in Sri Lanka during the first 10 months of this year. Notably, 79 of these cases were among individuals aged 15-24 years.
Currently, it is estimated that there are 4,100 people living with HIV in Sri Lanka, with 3,033 of them registered at Sexual Health Clinics for treatment.
HIV, a virus that compromises the immune system and can progress to AIDS if untreated, remains a significant public health concern.
Dr. Gunarathna highlighted that rapid tests conducted at Sexual Health Clinics are both anonymous and free-of-charge, providing results within 15 minutes. Moreover, individuals hesitant to visit clinics can request a self-test kit, obtainable through www.knowforsure.lk, for further information and assistance.
