As of December 1, 2020, the HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in Cameroon was 2.7%. From 4.3% in 2011 to 3.4% in 2018 and 2019, the country's prevalence curve is on a downward trend. The figures were reported yesterday, December 1, during the celebration of the 33rd World AIDS Day, by the Minister of Health (Minsanté).

At the end of the first half of the year 2020, 1,250,000 people had been tested, including 329,218 pregnant women. 37,429 people living with HIV have been newly identified and 30,061 people have been put on antiretroviral (ARV) treatment, explains Manaouda Malachie.

At the regional level, the South is the region most affected by HIV, with a prevalence rate of 5.9%. The Center is next at 4.1%. The Eastern region is in third place with a prevalence of 4.6%.

Nevertheless, after 40 years of struggle, "the results obtained are encouraging and allow us to look to the future with optimism," the health minister said.

According to him, these significant advances were achieved thanks to the joint efforts of collective commitment. In Cameroon, antiretroviral treatment has been free since 2007. Other services are also included in this free initiative.

This is the case of "the prevention of opportunistic infections, screening of pregnant women, their partners and children under 5 years of age. The costs of examinations related to the management of this pathology are free, since January 1, 2020, in the 10 regions of the country," the official said.

B.E