Guyana’s battle against the HIV/AIDS epidemic has been gaining international recognition as the country emerges as one of the leaders in the fight against this deadly virus. Recent reports indicate that Guyana has achieved one of the lowest rates of new infections, particularly among its youth. This success is an important example for other nations in the Caribbean and around the world.
The impressive strides made by Guyana were recently underscored by Programme Manager of the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS), Dr. Tariq Jagnarine. Dr. Jagnarine responded to a report published in September by the United Nations (UN) and Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which suggested that a significant spike in HIV infections among young people, aged 15 to 24, had occurred. According to the report, this age group accounted for 28 percent of new HIV infections in 2023, while the Caribbean region overall contributed to 27 percent of the 15,000 new infections reported.
However, Dr Jagnarine refuted these claims, pointing out that Guyana, along with Suriname, had some of the lowest HIV rates among its youth. He clarified that the report’s findings were based on erroneous data, which failed to accurately reflect the situation in these countries. According to Dr. Jagnarine, the apparent rise in infections was not a trend seen in Guyana, which has been making significant progress in reducing new cases of HIV among young people. He emphasized that Guyana remains focused on its vulnerable youth population and continues to work diligently to ensure the prevention and treatment of HIV in this group.
While HIV rates among young people in the Caribbean remain a serious concern, Guyana’s success is a direct result of the country’s ongoing commitment to a comprehensive national HIV strategy.
One of the key game-changers in Guyana’s strategy is the implementation of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). This once-daily medication has proven to be highly effective in reducing the risk of HIV infection, particularly for those at high risk. In 2024 alone, more than 30,000 patients have had access to PrEP treatment, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to control the virus. Dr. Jagnarine further revealed that over 6,000 patients received regular refills of their PrEP medication, while an additional 1,400 new patients benefited from self-testing kits.
Self-testing has emerged as another crucial component of Guyana’s HIV response. The accessibility and convenience of self-testing kits have made it easier for individuals to test for HIV in the privacy of their own homes. This initiative has been met with overwhelming support, and the Health Ministry has also introduced home delivery of self-testing kits to ensure that those in remote areas have access to these vital tools. With the success of this program, the country has seen a steady increase in the number of people getting tested and linked to treatment.
One of the major challenges in the fight against HIV is the difficulty in reaching those who are not yet aware of their status or who have fallen out of care. This has been a challenge in Guyana as well, but the country has made significant progress in identifying and re-engaging individuals who need treatment. Dr. Jagnarine highlighted that this year, the number of individuals receiving care had increased from 6,000 to almost 7,400, an encouraging development that points to improved access and retention in care.
These efforts come at a time when the world observes World AIDS Day, which this year is focused on the theme, “Take the rights path: My health, my right.” The theme underscores the importance of healthcare access and the empowerment of individuals to take control of their health. For Guyana, this theme aligns closely with its national HIV strategy, which emphasizes human rights, access to treatment, and the elimination of stigma and discrimination.
Dr. Jagnarine’s statement that the country is actively working to address issues like stigma and human rights within various sectors, including the police and defense forces, demonstrates the holistic approach that Guyana is taking. By integrating education and awareness around human rights with HIV prevention and care, Guyana is paving the way for more inclusive and effective strategies in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The battle against HIV/AIDS is not over, but Guyana’s efforts and achievements offer hope.
