According to Coordinator of the National Response Programme for HIV/AIDS, Julie Frampton, since 1987when the first case was reported in Dominica, 410 people have tested positive.

Frampton also noted that there appears to be a shift in the age of those coming down with the disease with more over the age of 30 compared to previous years where those under the age of 30 appeared to be more greatly affected.

For the period 1987-2011, there were 143 certified HIV-related deaths, with 5 reported in 2011. The authorities at the time blamed the deaths on individuals who were not accessing the available treatment, care and support services.

The Caribbean has the highest incidence of HIV/AIDS after sub-Saharan Africa. Last month, countries in Latin America and the Caribbean and partner organisations established new targets for expanding diagnosis and antiretroviral treatment (ART) and reducing patients’ viral loads by the year 2020.