Bungoma County has been hit by a concerning spike in HIV infections, this revelation comes on the back of released Ministry of Health (MOH) report for the year 2023.
The report reveals a staggering 524 new HIV cases, with Kanduyi Sub County leading the statistics at 22%.
The overall count of people living with HIV in Bungoma County now stands at over 27,000.
The breakdown per Sub-county indicates rising numbers in Kimilili (13%), Tongaren (13%), Bumula (11%), Webuye West (11%), Kabuchai (10%), Webuye East (7%), Sirisia (5%), Mt Elgon (4%), and Cheptais (4%).
During a World AIDS Day event at Amtalla stadium in Kimilili, Bungoma County Deputy Governor Jenipher Mbatiany expressed deep concern about the trend, urging residents to abstain from unprotected sex.
She emphasized the need for community-led efforts to combat the pandemic and highlighted factors such as gender-based violence, teen pregnancies, and poor adherence to antiretroviral treatment contributing to the rise in infections.
Addressing a gathering at Amtalla stadium in Kimilili on World AIDS Day, Bungoma County Deputy Governor Jenipher Mbatiany raised an alarm over the alarming surge in HIV infections, particularly among adolescents and young adults.
With 524 new infections reported in 2023, Mbatiany emphasized the need for communities to take the lead in the fight against HIV/AIDS. She noted that gender-based violence, high rates of teen pregnancies, and late health-seeking behavior by men were contributing factors.
The Deputy Governor acknowledged the efforts of mothers in adhering to care and treatment, with the county now incorporating the HIV Exposed Infants (HEI) graduation to celebrate successes.
The Health and Sanitation CEC, Dr. Andrew Wamalwa, echoed the call for responsible sexual behavior, emphasizing the impact of stigma on those affected. As the county grapples with the surge, Bungoma authorities are urging residents to adopt best practices to curb the spread of HIV.
