NAWALPARASI: A total of 13 new cases of HIV infection were reported in Nawalparasi district during the last fiscal year.

Dilliram Tiwari from the Health Office Nawalpur stated that alongside these new infections, the district also witnessed the demise of five individuals within the same period.

Currently, there are a total of 120 people grappling with HIV, both newly diagnosed and existing cases, in the district.

Tiwari stated, “In Nawalparasi, the HIV statistics for the years 2077-78, 2078-79, and 2079-80 show a worrisome increase: 82, 107, and 120 infections, respectively.”

Notably, among the 120 new cases identified in the past year, two are children aged between five and 14.

“Of the infected individuals, 99, comprising 51 men and 48 women, are consistently undergoing medical treatment,” he noted.

“Nine people—five men and four women—have relocated to their native districts, and five men have discontinued their medication,” he added.

Expressing concern about the escalating trend, Keshav Prasad Chapagain, the head of the district health office Nawalpur, emphasized the need for municipal involvement in healthcare and livelihood support for HIV-infected individuals.

He remarked, “Despite the government’s ambitious goal to eradicate HIV infections by 2030, the numbers in Nawalparasi continue to rise.”

Nirmala Paudel, President of Lumbini Plus, an organization dedicated to HIV advocacy, highlighted the persistent societal challenges faced by HIV-infected individuals and their families.

She asserted, “There has been no discernible change in societal attitudes towards those affected by HIV, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and compassion.”