The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) has yet to confirm two new cases of HIV/AIDS in the Honiara, following preliminary test results.
If confirmed, these cases would add to the increasing number of reported HIV cases in the country this year.
Currently, there 47 cases since the country recorded the first HIV case in 1994.
The suspected cases were identified during routine health screenings, with one detected at the Maternity Ward of the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara.
Blood samples from the patients are expected to be sent either to Australia or tested locally for final confirmation.
A source within the NRH, who requested anonymity, told Solomon Star last week that another suspected case was identified on Wednesday involving a 30-year-old female who initially tested positive for HIV.
“Final testing will be done for confirmation, and the samples will be sent either to Australia or tested here in Honiara,” the source said.
The source also revealed that a second suspected case involves a 14-year-old female which was identified just last week, calling the rise in HIV cases “alarming for the country.”
Both individuals will undergo medical care and counselling as part of the national HIV response strategy.
A health official, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized the importance of regular testing and public awareness to prevent further spread of the virus.
“HIV/AIDS remains a serious public health concern, and we encourage everyone to know their status and practice safe behaviours,” the official said.
The MHMS continues to work with partner organizations to strengthen HIV prevention programs, focusing on education, improved access to testing, and reducing stigma associated with the disease.
As part of its ongoing efforts, the ministry is urging the public to access free voluntary testing services available at local clinics across the country.
Meanwhile, the Solomon Islands recorded seven new HIV-positive cases last year, a significant increase from the three cases reported previously.
Deputy Secretary for Health Improvement, Dr. Nemia Bainivalu, disclosed during last year’s World AIDS Day that the seven cases consisted of one female and six males.
He said most of these cases range between 19 to 25 years of age, which is a very sexually active group.
The MHMS urges the public to remain vigilant, practice safe sexual behaviors, and seek medical assistance if they suspect exposure to the virus.
By Ulutah Gina
Solomon Star, Honiara
