HIV numbers highest yet

MANILA, Philippines–A total of 667 new cases of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which could lead to the fatal acquired immune deficiency syndrome, were reported in March, the highest number since 1984, according to the Department of Health.

“This is a 34-percent increase from the same period last year,” the DOH said.

The DOH urged the public anew to submit to HIV testing for the government to get an accurate picture of the disease in the country and implement the right program to combat it.

The DOH will have a week-long free HIV testing program in all social hygiene clinics nationwide starting Monday. It will run until Friday.–Tina G. Santos