Barbados is recording about 100 new cases of HIV every year, causing health officials to warn partygoers – at the official start of the month-long Crop Over Festival – to practice safe sex during the season.
Senior officials at the Ministry of Health confirmed there was concern about what they called a “slight increase” in cases, particularly last year.
“Each year, Barbados records an average of 100 new cases of HIV. In 2024, a total of 105 new cases were diagnosed, reflecting a slight increase compared to the annual average but still within expected trends,” the official said, pointing out that at present there were about 2 000 people living with HIV and receiving care and treatment.
The Sunday Sun was reliably informed that the increasing numbers were causing concern and had placed additional pressure on the HIV Food Bank which provides food support and medical nutrition therapy for those living with HIV. Sources said the Food Bank was also in need of more staff to deal with the increasing numbers.
Giving a breakdown of the numbers, the official explained that this population includes adults and children, with adults accounting for the majority of cases. Of those receiving care, about 58 per cent are men, 42 per cent are women, and 0.2 per cent are children under the age of 15.
Asked about shortages in antiretroviral medication which affected patients about two years ago, the official pointed out that Barbados did tried to maintain adequate supplies given that there may be “stockouts” of the drugs.
“The Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to provide free antiretroviral therapy (ART) to all persons living with HIV in Barbados. This is in line with the national policy of universal access to treatment, in keeping with international standards and commitments to achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.
“While there are occasional stockouts of certain individual antiretroviral drugs, the country maintains adequate supplies of fixed-dose combination regimens, ensuring that treatment continuity is preserved. This means that people living with HIV are receiving the medications they need to remain healthy and live full lives. The ministry continues to work with international partners and procurement agencies to minimise disruptions and improve supply chain resilience.”
The Ministry of Health is also providing at-risk people with pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications said to be highly effective for preventing HIV transmissions, with the official stating that health promotion and education remained an integral and consistent component of the national HIV response.
“The ministry currently implements a policy of offering PrEP to anyone deemed to be at substantial risk for HIV, as part of the package of comprehensive HIV and STI prevention services.”
In addition, people living with HIV also have access to treatment, laboratory monitoring and support, while the ministry “is actively working to improve services, reduce stigma and protect the health of everyone in our communities”.
In terms of the Crop Over season, which could result in increase use of substances such as alcohol and drugs, the official stated: “The Ministry of Health and Wellness would like to take this opportunity to remind the public to prioritise their health and well-being by practising safe sexual behaviours as they enjoy the Crop Over festivities. We encourage everyone to take responsible steps to protect themselves and their partners, including using condoms correctly and consistently, getting tested regularly and avoiding risky behaviours, especially when under the influence of alcohol or other substances.” (MB)
Must be “AT ALL TIMES”.