Call for early testing as SI records 25 New HIV Cases
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA), together with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), have called for people to get tested to know their HIV status and seek treatment.
The two health authorities made the call following a record of new 25 HIV cases released by MHMS at the end of May this year.
The latest data update was recently shared by SIPPA, which is working alongside the MHMS to raise awareness about HIV prevention, testing, and treatment.
At the end of 2025, the Ministry had confirmed 34 new cases, bringing the cumulative number of recorded HIV infections to 79 according to the previous MHMS report.
It has been reported that this figure has signalled a significant rise compared to previous years, when only one or two cases were detected annually.
These new 25 cases brings the total number of HIV cases in the country to 104 confirmed cases.
In a recent statement, SIPPA said that HIV can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.
SIPPA also encourages Solomon Islanders to take advantage of confidential HIV testing services.
SIPPA said that early HIV testing is one of the most effective ways to protect individual and public health.
The organisation further adds that people who are diagnosed early can begin life-saving antiretroviral treatment, enabling them to live long, healthy, and productive lives while greatly reducing the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
The organisation also urges communities to help eliminate the stigma surrounding HIV, noting that fear of discrimination often discourages people from seeking testing and treatment.
SIPPA said that creating a supportive environment will encourage more people to know their status and access care without fear.
The new figures follow a concerning upward trend in HIV infections over the past two years, based on media reports.
In 2024, the country recorded seven new HIV cases, an increase from three cases reported the previous year.
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