In Central Visayas, the number of confirmed HIV cases has been on the rise, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and education about HIV/AIDS. According to data from the Department of Health Central Visayas CHD Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, there were 878 cases in 2021, which increased to 1,007 cases in 2022. The first eight months of 2023 alone recorded close to 1,000 new HIV cases, emphasizing the concerning trend.
HIV (human immuno-deficiency virus) is a virus that compromises the immune system, leading to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), the advanced stage of HIV infection characterized by significant immune system deterioration..