Bangladesh is at an increased risk of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) transmission, primarily due to its proximity to neighbouring countries with higher infection rates.

Health experts expressed this concern by quoting the recent data that shows the AID infection rate in Bangladesh is showing an upward trend as the rate in its neighbouring countries including India, Myanmar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand is rising day by day.

While the current AIDS infection rate in Bangladesh stands at 0.01 per cent, which is relatively low considering the population size, the rates soar significantly in adjacent Indian states, particularly West Bengal, and Myanmar. Additionally, the infection rates in other countries frequently visited by Bangladeshis are alarmingly high.

The Rohingya population, seeking shelter in Bangladesh, contributes substantially to the country's confirmed cases. Recognizing the potential threat, advocates are calling for rigorous screening measures at airports, seaports, and land ports to curb HIV transmission.

The influx of individuals returning during the COVID-19 pandemic, both legally and illegally, has led to a surge in newly diagnosed AIDS patients. Disturbingly, infection rates among their family members are also disproportionately high, raising concerns about certain communities being underserved in testing efforts.

Migrant workers, legal and illegal returnees, constitute a significant portion of newly diagnosed HIV patients. Statistics indicate that 30 per cent of new HIV patients are either migrant workers or their family members.

Dr. Abdul Wadud, Manager of the AIDS/STD program at the Department of Health, emphasized the annual progress in AIDS control in Bangladesh, with the current infection rate standing at 0.01 per cent. However, the challenge persists due to the substantially higher AIDS rates in neighbouring countries, where many Bangladeshis travel for various purposes.

Efforts have been initiated to control the spread from neighbouring countries, with a 2022 survey revealing an 11 per cent intravenous drug use rate among AIDS patients in Bangladesh. In comparison, neighbouring Indian states and Myanmar exhibit significantly higher rates.

The United Nations Office of AIDS and Health data from November 2021-October 2022 estimates around 14,500 AIDS patients in Bangladesh, with 68 per cent identified and 32 per cent undiagnosed.

Assistant Professor (Virology) Dr. Zahidur Rahman of Suhrawardy Medical College and Hospital stressed that Bangladesh, despite being a low-prevalence country, remains at high risk due to shared borders with India and Myanmar, both facing substantial HIV risks. He advocates for affordable and swift HIV screening at entry points to mitigate potential transmission.

According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, there is a concerning lack of AIDS awareness among women, with 28.5 per cent unaware of the disease. Efforts to increase awareness have seen progress, with 71.5 per cent now aware of at least one AIDS carrier.

The National AIDS/STD Control program reported that from November 2020 to November 2021, over 12 lakh 91 thousand people were tested for HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh. However, challenges persist, with the risk of AIDS infection among women rising due to insufficient growth in awareness.

The fight against AIDS in Bangladesh dates back to 1989, with the first diagnosed patient still actively participating in HIV treatment programs. High-risk populations include male and female sex workers, homosexuals, individuals with tuberculosis, migrant workers, mothers seeking hospital delivery services, and Rohingyas, while 33 per cent of victims are ordinary citizens.

Continued efforts and heightened awareness are crucial in mitigating the HIV risk in Bangladesh.