As the number of daily reported cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) shows upward trend in the Philippines, some medical experts and advocacy groups are encouraging voluntary testing for early detection and proper treatment.
"You can go to any social hygiene clinic. Marami kasing tao hindi alam or natatakot. We explain to them na importante po to get tested lalo na kung sa palagay ninyo mataas ang inyong chance of getting it," Dr. Gilbert Yang said in an Unang Balita report on Monday.
READ: WHO & UN: Philippines has Fastest Growing HIV Epidemic in the World
Eros, a 37-year-old who tested positive for HIV ten years ago, said that awareness on this health condition helped him cope and switch to a healthy lifestyle.
"Noong nalaman ko na may HIV na ako, ang naramdaman ko okay pa rin naman dahil may mga gamot na tutulong para i-maintain 'yung healthy na pamumuhay," he said.
Yang said that preventive drugs are now also available to avoid the spread of HIV. Some may be taken several days before engaging in any sexual activity while others are prescribed within 72 hours after a person gets exposed to HIV.
READ: HIV Prevention Pill Now Available in the Philippines
Support groups also conduct HIV awareness initiatives and testing among the public, as well as treatment services for persons who are living with HIV.
According to the Department of Health, at least 38 new HIV and AIDS cases are being reported daily in 2019 — higher than the daily record of 32 in 2018 and 16 in 2014.
READ: More than 700 people, mostly children, test positive for HIV in Pakistan
DOH Undersecretary Eric Domingo said that the rise may be attributed to the convenience of finding sexual partners through social media and dating apps. —Dona Magsino/KBK, GMA News
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This article first appeared on GMA News via MSN.
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