HEALTH MINISTER DECLARES “NATIONAL HIV CRISIS”, INFECTIONS SURGE AMONG YOUTH AND INFANTS
HEALTH Minister Elias Kapavore has declared a National HIV Crisis in Papua New Guinea following a significant rise in infections.
Data from 2024 shows that PNG has recorded approximately 11,000 new HIV cases this year, averaging 30 new infections daily.
Disturbingly, nearly half of the daily infections are among young people aged 24 and under.
A major concern is the high rate of mother-to-child transmission, with an estimated 2,700 babies infected this year alone.
Minister Kapavore says the crisis reflects serious inequalities in access to HIV testing and treatment, particularly for pregnant women and youth.
He is calling for urgent investment in prevention and care services to protect the future generation.
