The World Health Organisation says nearly 30 million people living with HIV are currently on Antiretroviral treatment, while nine million others need treatment but are not getting it.

WHO director-general Tedros Ghebreyesus said this during an online media conference ahead of the December 1, 2024 World AIDS Day.

Mr Ghebreyesus, therefore, recalled that since the commemoration of the first World AIDS Day (WAD) in 1988, the global body had expanded
access to prevention, diagnosis and treatment of HIV.

He said, “The gains are at real risk, and reduction in new infections and deaths have stalled. While nearly 30 million people are currently on antiretroviral treatment, another nine million need treatment and are not getting it.”

He said the danger is that many more people are unaware that they are living with HIV.

He explained that many of these gaps are among key populations who are marginalised, criminalised or discriminated against, as well as men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, transgender people, sex workers and prisoners.

“The most effective way to close the gap and reach these populations is by recognising and respecting their rights,” stated the WHO boss.

(NAN)