Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka faces growing public health crisis as HIV and STI cases surge
Health experts have raised alarm over a sharp rise in HIV infections across Sri Lanka, accompanied by increasing rates of sexually transmitted infections including syphilis and hepatitis B and C. The trend underscores deepening challenges in the country's sexual health landscape.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Sri Lanka is experiencing a concerning upward trajectory in HIV cases, with leading medical professionals warning of simultaneous spikes in other sexually transmitted infections that pose a significant public health threat. The concurrent rise in syphilis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C diagnoses has prompted health authorities to review prevention and treatment strategies. Dr. Nimali Jayasuriya, President of the Sri Lanka College of Sexual Health and HIV Medicine, has emphasised the urgent need for coordinated public health responses to address the mounting crisis. The infections span multiple demographic groups and transmission routes, indicating that current prevention frameworks may require strengthening to contain further spread. Health officials have called for enhanced surveillance systems, expanded testing facilities, and improved access to antiretroviral and preventive treatments to reverse the upward trend in sexually transmitted infections nationwide.