He said that new HIV infections continued to rise among young people and emphasised the importance of using condoms if they choose to engage in sexual activity.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) about the Commission’s activities at the recently concluded Kwahu Easter celebrations, Dr. Akanbong said there was the need for young people to avoid alcohol and drugs.
He stated that, in an effort to prevent new HIV infections, the Commission remained steadfast in its awareness campaigns during the Easter festivities at Kwahu.

“We established seven booths strategically across the festival grounds, focusing on condom distribution, education, and self-testing services,” he said.

Dr. Akanbong said the GAC took advantage of the large gatherings at Kwahu to remind the public of the presence of HIV infections, offered prevention tips, and advocated against stigma toward persons living with HIV/AIDS.

“Kwahu has always been one of the opportunities we have used to create awareness on the HIV epidemic, and this year presents an opportunity for us to reach out to many people again,” he said.

Dr Akanbong said that pre-exposure prophylaxis medications were made available at Kwahu for high-risk populations, including commercial sex workers.
He urged the public to embrace the HIV self-testing initiative, saying it increased awareness, helped individuals take preventive measures, and enabled people to seek treatment as quickly as possible.

As of the third quarter of 2024, Ghana recorded approximately 34,000 new HIV infections, with the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) estimating that about 50 people contract HIV every day.

According to data from the National AIDS Control Programme, the HIV prevalence rate in the general population stands at 1.53 per cent, with an estimated 334,545 adults and children currently living with the virus.

HIV is an infection that targets and weakens the body’s immune system, specifically attacking white blood cells. Over time, this makes the body more vulnerable to illnesses such as tuberculosis, infections, and certain types of cancer.

If left untreated, HIV can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)—the most advanced stage of the disease—often developing over many years.

HIV is spread through specific body fluids of an infected person, including blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids.
It can also be transmitted from a mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. However, HIV is not spread through casual contact, such as kissing, hugging, or sharing food.

HIV can be treated and managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART). While there is currently no cure, ART helps individuals live long, healthy lives and reduces the risk of transmission to others. Early detection and consistent treatment are key to preventing the progression of HIV to AIDS.