HIV Treatment Improving Nationwide, Says AIDS Commission

By Simon Deng

The Deputy Chairperson of the South Sudan AIDS Commission, Achol Ayom Dor has highlighted significant improvements in HIV treatment across the country, noting the increasing number of individuals receiving anti-retroviral therapy.

“The percentage of people on anti-retroviral treatment has risen from 47 percent to 75,567, up from 44,000. The number of mothers on anti-retroviral treatment has also increased from 4,204 to 4,622, which is a positive development,” Dor stated on Friday during the World AIDS Day celebration in Juba.

“However, the overall number of people receiving treatment remains low, which is a concern. We aim to achieve 95 percent awareness so that more people can test for their HIV status. Awareness has increased from 35 percent to 55 percent,” she added.

Dor also revealed that the annual number of deaths from HIV-related causes has decreased from 8,010 to 5,000 this year, indicating that treatment is effective. She emphasised the importance of individuals following up on their HIV treatment.

“The HIV prevalence rate was 2.1 percent, but it is projected to drop to 1.5 percent by 2025. I believe we have made significant progress. The total number of people affected was 172,000, and now it stands at 152,000. This decline is due to either successful treatment or the unfortunate passing of some individuals. We are making strides,” said Dor.

“The treatment coverage has improved from 77 percent to 90 percent. We provide free medicines, showcasing the excellent work of various organisations. Viral suppression is achievable for those under treatment; when medication is taken regularly, the virus will not be detectable in the body, allowing individuals to have children without the risk of transmission.”