Four new cases of HIV have been identified in the British Virgin Islands so far this year, prompting renewed calls for safer sexual practices, testing and personal responsibility.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronald Georges made the disclosure in a statement on Thursday, August 20, following the Ministry of Health and Social Development’s recent “Wrap It Up Before You Wuk It Up” campaign.
Dr. Georges said public-health investigations have identified interconnected sexual networks and behaviours that could facilitate the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
He clarified that the four cases are not currently considered an outbreak, but said the findings reinforce the need for increased awareness, prevention and testing.
Among the behaviours identified as areas of concern are unprotected sex, casual encounters with new partners, multiple or overlapping sexual partnerships, transactional sex, and sexual activity involving alcohol or other substances.
Dr. Georges stressed that HIV and many other STIs can be present without symptoms, meaning people may appear healthy while carrying an infection.
He urged anyone who has had unprotected sex, a new or casual partner, multiple partners or believes they may have been exposed to an STI to get tested.
The Chief Medical Officer also encouraged people to use condoms consistently and correctly, particularly with new or casual partners.
He said individuals contacted by Public Health for partner notification should respond, stressing that being contacted does not necessarily mean a person has HIV or has done anything wrong. Partner notification is confidential, he added.
People diagnosed with HIV or another STI are being urged to remain in care, follow treatment advice and take steps to protect their partners.
Dr. Georges also highlighted the importance of consent and safeguarding, reminding the public that the general age of consent in the Virgin Islands is 16 and that sexual activity involving persons under 16 is illegal.
Confidential counselling and rapid HIV testing are available through the Public Health Unit at 468-2282 and the BVI Red Cross at 494-6349.
The Ministry reminded residents that a rapid HIV test does not screen for every STI and that testing immediately after exposure may not detect an infection because of the HIV testing window period.
Dr. Georges said the Territory must continue to avoid stigma surrounding HIV while also emphasising personal responsibility.
He encouraged residents to know their status, use protection, reduce their risk, respect consent and the law, and seek testing when they may have been exposed.