Data from the Ghana AIDS Control Commission reveal that over 1,000 new Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections were documented in the Western Region in 2024, according to the Western Regional HIV Coordinator, Dr. Felicia Amihere.
Dr. Amihere stated that 80% of these new infections were transmitted through sexual contact, 15% occurred via mother-to-child transmission, and the remaining five percent were due to the use of sharp objects like needles.
In a media interview at Huni-Valley, Dr. Amihere urged the public to take precautions against sexually transmitted diseases, emphasizing that sexual activity continues to be the primary source of new HIV infections in the region.
She encouraged the public to adopt the “A, B, C” prevention strategy — abstinence, being faithful to one uninfected partner, and the proper and consistent use of condoms. Dr. Amihere noted that if abstinence were widely practiced for a year, it could potentially decrease HIV infections by as much as 80%.
Dr. Amihere expressed her worries regarding changing sexual behaviors, pointing out that technology has facilitated casual sexual encounters.
“Nowadays, sex can take many forms. Individuals can download applications on their mobile devices and arrange sexual encounters just as they would order a ride,” she remarked.
She also highlighted the issue of emergency contraceptive misuse, indicating that some individuals depend on them instead of using condoms, which heightens their risk of infection.
Dr. Amihere mentioned that HIV was first identified in Ghana in 1986 and should have seen a significant decline by now; however, infections continue to rise.
She connected the increasing prevalence in the Western Region to economic activities, particularly mining.
“Where financial incentives are present, sexual activities tend to increase. Consequently, we observe high case numbers in Tarkwa Nsuaem and Prestea Huni-Valley Municipalities,” she stated.
Furthermore, she noted that districts such as Wassa Amenfi Central, East, and West, which previously had lower HIV prevalence rates, are now experiencing increases due to heightened mining activities.
Dr. Mrs. Amihere emphasized that HIV is a medical condition rather than a spiritual matter, noting that individuals living with the virus can maintain healthy lives if they follow their treatment regimen.
“HIV is a reality. It is not a spiritual issue. People contract it, but with the right treatment, they can manage it and remain healthy,” she stated.
She warned against discontinuing antiretroviral therapy in favor of unproven herbal or spiritual treatments, cautioning that there is currently no cure for HIV/AIDS.
“Those who switch their treatment to such medications often progress to AIDS, and by then, it is too late. Some even lose their lives,” she remarked.
