This archive report was first published on 26 November 2019.
According to a recent report by the National Aids and Sexually Transmitted Infections Control Programme (Nascop), Nairobi County has recorded the second-highest rate of new HIV infections, with 660 new cases reported. This is a worrying trend, especially as the country prepares to mark World AIDS Day on December 1.
Released on November 26, 2019, the report highlights the increasing number of new HIV infections in Western and Nyanza regions. The data shows that eight counties account for 50% of all new HIV infections, with Homa Bay County leading the country with 700 new reported cases.
The report also notes that the majority of new HIV infections occur among adolescents and young people aged between 15-24 years. This is a concerning trend, especially as it highlights the need for targeted interventions to prevent the spread of HIV among this age group.
Other counties that have recorded high numbers of new HIV infections include Siaya (620 new infections), Kisumu (616), Kakamega (437), Migori (432), and Busia (318). In contrast, counties with the smallest recorded number of infections are Tana River (13), Lamu and Marsabit (16), Mandera and Isiolo (19).
The report also highlights the importance of addressing mother-to-child transmission of HIV, with the current rate standing at 12.4%. To address this issue, Nascop has fast-tracked the procurement and distribution of HIV and STIs medicines, contraceptives, and nutrition products, and is providing capacity building and technical support for HIV response and coordinating resource mobilisation and partnerships.
