Puebla faces an alarming 83% increase in HIV cases in one year.

In the past year, the state of Puebla has faced an alarming increase in new cases of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, recording an 83% rise compared to the previous period. From January to September 2023, there were 326 new cases reported, raising concerns among health authorities and society at large. This significant increase underscores the urgent need to intensify prevention and awareness campaigns regarding this disease. According to information provided by the National Center for the Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS (Censida), only 178 cases were reported in the same period the previous year, highlighting a troubling trend that cannot be ignored. The situation is further complicated by the fact that among the patients treated, there are 47 minors under the age of 14 who require treatment, emphasizing the vulnerability of this age group to the virus. Currently, Puebla is providing care to a total of 5,983 patients receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), an essential treatment for managing HIV. Of this total, 4,466 are men and 964 are women. This distribution also highlights a gender issue, where men appear to be the most affected, although it is crucial not to underestimate the situation of women, who also face significant risks. Another concerning statistic is the number of young people who are being diagnosed late with the syndrome. At the national level, it is estimated that 40% of people living with the virus have already developed the disease, indicating that many live without knowledge of their serological status for years. This late diagnosis is a critical challenge that requires urgent attention, given that the syndrome can take seven to ten years to manifest after contracting the virus. The state’s Health Secretariat has noted that sex workers constitute one of the most responsible groups in HIV prevention, recognizing the risks they are exposed to. Despite the lack of official statistics on this sector, a proactive approach has been implemented that includes awareness campaigns on condom use and free screening events. Araceli Soria Córdoba, former head of the Health Secretariat, emphasized that sex workers are aware of their vulnerability and therefore tend to take more precautions. This statement underscores the importance of empowering these groups through education and access to health services, which could contribute to a reduction in virus transmission. Despite the challenges, Puebla has implemented a state strategy that includes the distribution of over 2 million condoms and the conducting of more than 40,000 screening tests aimed at "key populations," such as migrants, adolescents, and incarcerated individuals. These actions are fundamental to addressing the spread of HIV in the region and must be continued and expanded. The Comprehensive Hospital Care Services (SAIH) in locations such as Zacatlán and Tehuacán have provided care to 800 people, while the Ambulatory Center for the Prevention and Care of AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (CAPASITS) in Puebla has attended to more than 5,000 individuals with comprehensive medical services. These initiatives are a positive step, but they must be complemented by greater efforts in promoting testing and education about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. The significant increase in HIV cases in Puebla is a wake-up call for everyone. It is vital that health authorities, civil society, and the community at large work together to curb this trend and ensure that the necessary information and resources are available to those who need them most. Education and prevention are key to combating this epidemic and protecting future generations.