ODIONGAN, Romblon (PIA) — The Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Romblon reminds the public to remain vigilant and practice preventive measures following a reported slight increase in confirmed HIV/AIDS cases in the province.
The total number of HIV/AIDS cases in Romblon rose from 151 in June 2024 to 158 cases in December 2024. In Odiongan alone, the number of confirmed cases increased from 37 in June 2024 to 39 in December 2024, data from PHO Romblon indicates.
Despite this rise, health officials emphasize that HIV/AIDS is preventable. They encourage the public to follow the ABCDE approach to prevention, which includes: Abstaining from risky behaviors, Being faithful to one partner, Consistently using condoms, Avoiding the use of injectable drugs, and Prioritizing education and early testing.
In a statement, the Odiongan Rural Health Unit (RHU) and the Odiongan HIV/AIDS Council reaffirmed their commitment to raising awareness, educating the public, and providing free HIV testing services to help prevent further spread of the virus.
Health officials also stress the importance of supporting People Living with HIV (PLHIV). While HIV/AIDS remains a serious health concern, lifesaving treatment options are available to help PLHIV live longer, healthier lives while reducing the risk of transmission.
The local government continues to urge residents to get tested, seek medical advice, and spread awareness to help curb the rising number of HIV/AIDS cases in the province. (PJF/PIA MIMAROPA-Romblon)
