Rise in STI Cases Reported in the Maldives

A recently released report in the Maldives has revealed that health authorities detected 18 cases of HIV during 2011, with a further 400 cases of other sexually transmitted infections also being recorded. The number has been regarded as “significant” by health experts, some of whom are calling for an investigation into why the spread of STIs is occurring. The report, titled “Annual Communicable Disease 2011” from the Centre for Community Health and Disease Control (CCHDC), has shown that a total of 438 STIs were detected amongst more than 31,000 people taking tests in 2011. Astonishingly 97% of those affected were women. CCHCDC director...

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Posted in: Health / HIV

High-risk behaviour leaves Maldives at risk of HIV/AIDS “explosion”

A new report has revealed that the health authorities detected 18 HIV positive cases and over 400 cases of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in last year – a “significant” finding which has highlighted the need for additional research to understand the prevalence of STI’s and HIV in the Maldives. The report, “Annual Communicable Disease 2011” from the Centre for Community Health and Disease Control (CCHDC), revealed that among the 31,016 people tested under the Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) program last year, a total of 438 cases of STIs were reported, out of which 97 percent affected females. The report says among the 426...

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Posted in: Health / HIV

Maldivian fishing crew arrested on sodomy charges

A Maldivian fishing crew including five men and a minor have been arrested on charges of sodomy. According to a police media official, the men were arrested on Saturday following reports that they were committing acts of sexual misconduct on the boat. “We summoned the boat to dock at Villingilli in Gaaf Alif Atoll on Saturday while they were out fishing. They were all arrested upon their return and are now kept under Villigilli police station custody,” the official said. As the investigation is ongoing, the official declined to reveal the identity of the crew and where the boat is from. “All we can confirm is that they...

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Posted in: Society