World AIDS Day commemorated on Dec. 1

by Staff Writer 01-12-2023 | 7:47 AM

COLOMBO (News 1st); On 1st of December, WHO, together with communities and partners will commemorate World AIDS Day 2023, under the theme “Let communities lead”.

Dr. Nishan Gunarathna of the National STD/AIDS Control Programme said 485 HIV positive people were identified in Sri Lanka in the first 10 months of this year.

He added that 79 of the cases identified were between the ages of 15-24 years.

He said 4,100 HIV positive people are believed to be in Sri Lanka at present, and 3,033 of them have registered with Sexual Health Clinics for treatment.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, which can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) if not treated.

Dr. Nishan Gunarathna said rapid tests conducted at Sexual Health Clinics can be done anonymously and free-of-charge, and will reveal results within 15 minutes.

He said a self test kit can also be delivered to those who want to test but are unwilling to visit the Sexual Health Clinics.

He added that further information in this regard can be obtained via www.knowforsure.lk