HIV cases declining, SSM warns risks persist

The AIDS Prevention and Control Commission held its annual work meeting earlier this week to present the results of its activities and the current status of HIV in Macau. At the meeting, Health Bureau (SSM) director Alvis Lo said the city has maintained a low HIV infection rate thanks to nearly two decades of coordinated prevention efforts. He said the progress achieved since the body was established in 2005, crediting interdepartmental cooperation and community engagement. Between January and September this year, Macau reported 28 new HIV cases, evenly divided between residents and non-residents. All 14 resident cases involved men; half were aged 18 to 39, and the other half were 40 or older. According to data disclosed by the SSM, thirteen of the cases resulted from homosexual or bisexual contact, with only one linked to heterosexual contact.Officials stated that HIV infections among drug users, once a major concern, have declined significantly due to ongoing programs led by the Social Welfare Bureau aimed at preventing needle sharing. No new HIV cases related to shared needles have been reported since 2015. Officials report that more than 90% of residents are receiving treatment and achieving viral suppression. Despite these positive results, the SSM still urges residents to get tested, recommending that all adults be tested at least once and undergo annual testing if they engage in ongoing high-risk behaviors. Free rapid tests, self-testing programs, and community and university outreach efforts have been expanded to increase public awareness and participation in testing. Under the “Healthy Macau Action Plan,” authorities continue to work toward the goal of eliminating AIDS, emphasizing early screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The SSM stressed that sex education remains a crucial part of prevention efforts, stating that the Education and Youth Development Bureau will continue enhancing sex education programs in schools, families, and communities by introducing age-appropriate content, increasing teacher training, and organizing exhibitions, workshops, and theater events. Online platforms have also been established to provide resources for parents.