HIV prevalence continues to rise in Minnesota

According to statistics released today by the Minnesota Department of Health, 368 confirmed new cases of HIV were reported in Minnesota during 2009. The 368 new cases are the highest seen in 17 years. The Minnesota AIDS Project, the leading source for HIV information and services in Minnesota, believes that this data underscores its view that HIV prevention and education is at a critical point if we are to stop the increase in new cases.

Because the number of Minnesotans living with HIV continues to rise, and likely will given a greater percentage of the population living with the virus, there is an urgent need to ensure that current information about remaining safe is available to all who may be sexually active, especially those in high-risk communities. One of the primary risks of exposure is the fact that there are likely thousands of people in the state who do not know they are HIV-positive and are at risk for transmitting the virus to others.

“HIV is a preventable disease but we must talk about it to succeed. This younger generation was born sometime between 1986-1995 and became sexually active after the millennium. The message that they heard growing up was that AIDS was not a major problem in America and those living with HIV were living longer “normal” lives with the new medications. While true to some extent, this perception clouds the reality that HIV is at best a life-altering disease of medications and doctor visits for the rest of your life and, at worst, remains deadly.” said Lorraine Teel, executive director of the Minnesota AIDS Project. “We cannot be silent to our young adults about the risks that come along with sex. The fact that many in this age group are testing is a good step and means they’re hearing that message but we need to continue to invest in education to reinforce methods of reducing the risk for HIV to support long-term behavior change.”