KOTA BARU: About 80 per cent of new HIV patients recorded in Kelantan were infected through sexual activities.
Kelantan health director Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin said the figure involved both men and women and was recorded in the 43rd Epidemiological Week of this year.
He added that the average age of new HIV patients in the state was 33 years.
"The landscape of HIV transmission in Kelantan has changed from infection through sharing needles to contagion sexually involving men or women.
"Eighty percent of the new HIV infections are through sexual transmission," he said when launching the state-level HIV/AIDS Awareness Day celebration here today.
During the same period, Dr Zaini said the state health department recorded 86 per cent of HIV patients accessing antiretroviral (ARV) therapy.
"The percentage of those receiving ARV treatment in Kelantan has exceeded the national target but it still needs to be improved until we reach the 95 percent target ," he added.
He said all HIV positive patients would start their treatment with ARV therapy.
"The treatment, if taken correctly and according to the doctor's advice, will help to reduce the amount of the virus in the body of HIV patients to a lowest level and can reduce death due to HIV and AIDS.
"In addition, those who receive ARV treatment will also be able to enjoy a normal life like everyone else.
"They can become an active person in society and enjoy life expectancy like normal people," he added.
He said the department has carried out various programmes to educate the public about HIV/AIDS such as screening and awareness campaigns.
"Public awareness regarding HIV disease is important in reducing new cases and HIV infections in the community.
"Commitment and collaboration of various quarters and relevant agencies are needed in our efforts to end AIDS in the next seven years," he added.