The Tema Metropolitan Health Directorate (TMHD) has reported a notable increase in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections in 2023, with 783 new cases recorded compared to 603 cases in 2022.
According to Ms Joana Anorkor Lartey, the Tuberculosis and HIV Coordinator of the Directorate, the 2023 figures comprised 297 males and 486 females, whereas the previous year saw 263 males and 340 females testing positive for HIV.
Ms Lartey attributed the rise in HIV cases to the numerous free testing programs conducted by the health directorate within the communities throughout the year. These initiatives aimed to identify cases that may have gone undetected otherwise. She urged the public to take advantage of such screenings to ascertain their HIV status, emphasizing that early detection allows for timely treatment.
Out of the 757 new HIV infections identified in 2023, Ms Lartey noted that 757 cases were linked to care within the same period, underscoring the importance of prompt medical attention for those diagnosed with HIV.
In addition to HIV, the TMHD also addressed cases of Tuberculosis (TB) in the metropolis. Ms Lartey revealed that 154 TB cases were registered in Tema between January and December 2023, with 47 of them involving pediatric patients.
Despite the Directorate achieving most of its objectives for the year, Ms Lartey acknowledged several challenges encountered. These included funding constraints for monitoring and supervision, staff apathy, and delays in report submission.
Ms. Lartey expressed appreciation to stakeholders such as the Ghana News Agency, Obonu FM, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, and others for their support in disseminating information about TB and HIV and conducting screenings within the community. She emphasized the crucial role of collaboration in reaching the public with essential health messages and services.