HIV cases surge sharply in Sirajganj

Sirajganj district recorded 255 new HIV diagnoses this year, marking a sharp increase from previous years. Drug users account for 187 cases, while students represent 29 infections, and sex workers comprise four cases. The 250-bed general hospital began testing in February 2020 and initially identified four positive results that first year. Twenty-six patients have died under care, while others receive free medication and counseling services.

Medical staff attribute transmission to needle sharing among drug users and unsafe sexual practices among youth. Dr. Akikun Nahar said intravenous drug users frequently reuse syringes and spread infection through blood contact. The hospital supervisor called for law enforcement intervention to address the drug user population, driving most infections. Counselor Masud Rana confirmed the statistics and patient demographics at the testing center.