Even though the Philippines prides itself on its low HIV/AIDS prevalence, it is no guarantee that there would be no forthcoming epidemic. Even the Secretary of Health Francisco T. Duque III has mentioned that we are on the verge of a full-blown epidemic.
The Department of Health (DOH) has released the following data. From 20 cases a month for previous years, the number of new HIV positive cases has risen to 29 a month in 2007. The total HIV cases reported in the country since 1984 has reached to over 3,305; of which 793 developed full-blown AIDS. 310 of this number have already died.
The DOH also reports that transmission of the virus through heterosexual contact dropped from 193 cases in 2006 to 139 cases in 2007. Homosexual and bisexual transmission, however, have increased. Transmission through homosexual (81 cases in 2006 to 107 cases in 2007) and bisexual (26 cases in 2006 to 74 in 2007).
I wouldn’t go on lecturing about the evils of immorality or whatnot. I’m sure people already know whether their actions are good or not. I’m just posting this friendly Valentine reminder:
If legs cannot be closed or if pants must come off, then at least make every effort to be safe.
Remember that the reported HIV cases are only the tip of the iceberg. There is no regular HIV screening in the country, and most people wouldn’t even think of having themselves screened. The actual prevalence of HIV could be many times the reported number of 3,305.
Please save yourself from pain and don’t get infected.
Please save the doctors from the added burden of caring for more AIDS patients…
Source:
1. The Philippine Daily Inquirer
