President Abinader and Health Minister deny rise in HIV cases

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader and Minister of Public Health Víctor Atallah, during a press event in New York, refuted false claims circulating on social media about an alleged rise in HIV and AIDS cases in the Dominican Republic. They emphasized that the situation is under control, with patients receiving proper monitoring and treatment.

Minister Atallah stated that the country’s comprehensive program includes diagnosis, follow-up, and free treatment for HIV patients. He highlighted that the Dominican Republic uses advanced diagnostic techniques to track treatment resistance, ensuring effective care.

Additionally, the National Council for HIV and AIDS (Conavihsida) dismissed rumors of a supposed doubling of HIV cases in La Altagracia province. Technical Manager Melvin Brioso clarified that new positive cases in the region account for just 45%, contradicting the misleading figures. Brioso also noted the progress made through over 80 comprehensive care centers across the country, emphasizing that being HIV positive is no longer a death sentence due to advances in medication and treatment.