MD. ABDUL KARIM PATWARY:

HIV/AIDS is a deadly disease. The HIV virus is spreading in many countries, including Bangladesh. In several nations, it has reached alarming levels. Many people are dying from AIDS. Similar to other countries, the number of HIV-positive cases is increasing in Bangladesh as well.

In particular, the districts of Sirajganj and Barishal are witnessing a worrying rise in HIV-positive cases. In Sirajganj, 255 patients were diagnosed over the last five years, with 26 deaths. However, authorities say that the area is not yet considered a “red zone.” In Barishal, 20 people have tested positive for HIV. Doctors attribute the rise to drug use with shared syringes, concealment of disease information, lack of awareness, and unsafe sexual practices.

According to the ART Center at Sirajganj Sadar Hospital, 255 HIV-positive cases were recorded over the past five years. Among them, 226 were from Sirajganj, while the rest were from other districts. Of these, 26 patients have died.

Masud Rana, counselor and admin officer at the Sirajganj ART Center, said that in the past year, 38 people tested positive for HIV, including drug users, sex workers, the general population, and students.

Dr. Shahidullah Dewan, Assistant Director of Sirajganj General Hospital, stated that with proper treatment, many patients are gradually recovering. However, family and social awareness needs to increase to prevent HIV transmission.

Dr. Akikun Nahar, Supervisor at Sirajganj General Hospital, mentioned that although the number of HIV-positive cases is rising, Sirajganj is not being considered a “red zone” by hospital authorities at this time.

Meanwhile, a report from Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital (Shibachim) in Barishal shows that 20 new HIV-positive patients were diagnosed in the past year, of which 11 were students.