A ranking official of the Division of Public Health yesterday expressed fear HIV and AIDS are starting to become a major problem in the Northern Marianas as cases continue to climb up despite an awareness campaign.<\/p>\n
The issue was raised yesterday during the celebration of the 11th annual World AIDS Day.<\/p>\n
Fourteen HIV and AIDS cases were recorded this year, said Elsie Ramon, program manager for sexually transmitted disease and HIV\/AIDS.<\/p>\n
This brings to 26 the number of HIV and AIDS cases since 1983. The youngest victim has been an infant who acquired the HIV from her mother during pregnancy.<\/p>\n
Ramon was alarmed that 10 percent of the cases involved teenagers.<\/p>\n
“This is becoming a big problem for the CNMI,” Ramon said.<\/p>\n
World AIDS Day is observed to strengthen global efforts at curtailing the spread of AIDS.<\/p>\n
Local health authorities have organized month-long public awareness activities aimed at encouraging community support for the prevention of HIV and AIDS.<\/p>\n
“We all can be a force for change, especially young people. Protect yourself and be a positive force for change,” the Department of Public Health said in a news release.<\/p>\n
For an easy recall, it came up with an ABC acronym to convey its message across: A for abstinence; B for be faithful; and C for condom use.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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