Maine county sees alarming spike in HIV cases, prompting action from health officials
a center maine county The HIV epidemic rose to 43 cases after two new infections were reported last week, prompting a response from public health officials and community organizations across the state.
Both of the newly reported Penobscot County cases were diagnosed in April. Bangor Daily News reported Monday. The epidemic, which began in October 2023, has far exceeded the typical number of HIV cases in the county. Penobscot County typically sees two new cases of HIV per year, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Nearly all of the people infected in the outbreak reported either drug use or experiencing homelessness within a year of diagnosis, the Maine CDC said.
public health Authorities have warned that the true number of infections is likely higher than the detected total.
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Community groups increased across the state HIV test and prevention efforts as authorities try to contain the spread. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention staff also visited Penobscot County in December to assist with the response, according to the report.
Maine CDC also identified a separate cluster in Cumberland County in November of five HIV cases identified among drug injectors last year.
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HIV attacks the immune system and can interfere with the body’s ability to fight infection and disease, according to the CDC. There is no known cure, but medication can help control the virus.
In nearly all of the reported Penobscot County cases, infected people also tested positive for hepatitis C, the Maine CDC said. Hepatitis C is a liver disease that may be mild for some people but can lead to serious long-term complications, including liver damage. cancer.
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More than three-quarters of HIV patients linked to the Penobscot County outbreak received treatment within 30 days of diagnosis, according to Maine CDC figures. Of the 41 people in the outbreak currently living in Maine, 59% had reached viral suppression in their most recent testing, meaning they cannot transmit HIV to others.
Original article source: Maine county sees alarming rise in HIV cases and health officials need to take action
