Spread Love, Not HIV – GHANET President Urges Youth

The President of the Ghana HIV and AIDS Network (GHANET), Ernest Amoabeng Ortsin, has advised Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to prioritize their health and avoid risky sexual behaviors during this year’s Valentine’s Day celebrations.

His message was contained in a press statement issued yesterday ahead of Valentine’s Day, urging the public to celebrate responsibly amidst concerns about rising HIV infections in the country. Mr. Ortsin noted that as of December 2023, an estimated 334,000 people were living with HIV in Ghana, with 35,460 new infections recorded between January and September 2024.

“While love and intimacy are essential parts of human connection, they must be expressed with responsibility and self-awareness,” he stated.

Mr. Ortsin advised the youth to avoid unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and substance abuse, emphasizing that these behaviors significantly increase the risk of HIV infection. He encouraged the public to practice safe sex through consistent condom use or abstain if conditions are not right.

Additionally, GHANET called on Ghanaians to know their HIV status, highlighting the availability of HIV Self-Testing (HIVST) kits for those concerned about privacy.

BY RAISSA SAMBOU