General information on HIV/AIDS
AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is a disease caused by HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). The first case of AIDs was first detected in Maldives in the year 1991. As of 31 December 2022, 40 cases have been detected nationwide. Including 6 women and 34 men, of which 15 have died and 22 people are currently undergoing treatment.
The antiretroviral treatment for HIV/AIDS has been available in Maldives since 2004, this is a completely free treatment given to prevent HIV. Prevention treatment ( (Pre-exposure prophylaxis or PrEP) is also available in the country.
- HIV is a preventable disease.
- HIV treatment is available free of charge in Maldives
- HIV is not a completely curable disease. However, with regular treatment, you can lead a healthy life.
- Even if a person looks healthy, the person may be infected with HIV.
Modes of disease transmission
- Unprotected sex
- When using drugs using syringes, sharing objects such as syringes that have been used by one person can increase the risk of HIV infection.
- HIV-infected mothers may pass HIV to baby , during pregnancy and childbirth, or through breastfeeding.
Methods to prevent the spread of disease
- Mosquitoes do not spread HIV from person to person.
- HIV is not transmitted by sharing or eating with an HIV positive person.
- HIV is not transmitted by using a toilet used by an HIV-positive person
- HIV is not transmitted by using clothes used by an infected person.
How to prevent HIV
- Sex with one faithful partner who is not infected with HIV reduces the risk of HIV infection.
- Use condom during sex
- Do not share syringes used by another person
- Complete HIV prevention treatment as recommended by healthcare providers
- Early detection of HIV during pregnancy, can prevent HIV from being passed on to your baby by completing the prescribed treatment
Importance of testing
- The importance of testing and making sure you are free of the disease
- Testing can also be done anonymously, and the results will not be disclosed to anyone
- HIV testing is very important after pregnancy, at least during the first three months and this will prevent HIV from being passed from mother to baby