Rising HIV Infection Rates among Kagadi Youth Raise Concerns for Health Officials

20 February 2024, 7:36 am

In Kagadi, health officials, led by Kugonza Anatoli Kabagambe of Kagadi General Hospital, are increasingly alarmed by the surge in HIV infections among youths aged 18 to 25, particularly among girls.

Kabagambe, an ambassador in the fight against HIV and stigma among Kagadi’s youth, disclosed these troubling statistics last evening (Monday) during a briefing with our reporter.

According to him, their data analysis reveals a stark contrast between genders: for every 10 boys tested, only one may test positive for HIV, or none at all, whereas among girls, the rate is significantly higher, with 2 to 3 out of 10 testing positive.

This concerning trend, Kabagambe pointed out, is largely attributed to parental neglect in educating their children about HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

He criticized parents for shying away from discussing sexual matters with their children, instead imposing strict conditions, which he deems as inadequate parenting.

Kabagambe emphasized the importance of proactive HIV testing before engaging in sexual activities.

He expressed dismay that many youths resort to HIV testing only after unprotected sex, unaware that the virus may not be detectable in the blood immediately after exposure.

He stressed that HIV can manifest signs within 3 to 6 months post-exposure, underscoring the critical need for timely testing.

As the HIV infection rates continue to rise among Kagadi’s youth, health officials and community leaders are intensifying efforts to promote awareness, education, and early testing to curb the spread of the virus.