3600 HIV patients in SL; 1600 unaware of being infected

COLOMBO (News 1st): Based on estimations at present, there are around 3600 HIV infected people in the country, the National STD/AIDS Control Programme said on Saturday (Feb. 20). "Of the 3600 HIV infected individuals, close to 1600 are not aware of being infected. Only around 2100 HIV infected patients visit clinics of the National STD/AIDS Control Programme to receive treatment," Specialist Dr. Rasanjali Hettiarachchi, Director of the National STD/AIDS Control Programme told News 1st. According to Dr. Hettiarachchi, the National STD/AIDS Control Programme conducts 44 clinics across the island including in Colombo and Gampaha. Based on the data obtained quarterly from the clinics currently in operation, it has been revealed that only close to 2100 patients visit clinics; meaning there are close to 1600 infected individuals who are unaware of being infected, Dr. Hettiarachchi pointed out. "As such, there's a need to identify these patients and provide the necessary medical treatment and support for them," Specialist Dr. Rasanjali Hettiarachchi, Director of the National STD/AIDS Control Programme emphasized.