HPA launches initiative to assess public awareness regarding HIV

The Health Protection Agency (HPA), on Wednesday, has launched an initiative to assess public awareness of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and identify gaps in the community’s knowledge of the virus.

According to the HPA, the initiative aims to evaluate existing levels of public awareness and determine what additional information is needed. The agency has encouraged the public to participate in an online poll launched through its social media platforms to help gather the necessary information.

The HPA’s poll comprises three key questions: respondents’ level of knowledge about HIV, whether they believe Maldivian youth are adequately informed about the virus, and whether they know where confidential HIV testing services are available in the Maldives.

The HPA plays a key role in protecting public health and preventing the spread of HIV through awareness campaigns, preventive measures and early detection programmes. These efforts focus on educating the public about transmission routes, promoting safer practices and encouraging HIV testing. Early diagnosis is essential for ensuring timely and effective treatment while significantly reducing the risk of further transmission.

On September 30th, Health Minister Gila Ali revealed that 22 new HIV cases had been reported in the Maldives so far this year, with most transmissions attributed to unprotected sexual contact. The Minister also noted that a total of 76 cases had been recorded in the country to date, with 52 individuals currently living with the virus.

HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person or exposure to infected blood, including through the sharing of contaminated needles or syringes.