How Have New HIV Infections in Nepal Declined Over the Last 15 Years?
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Synopsis
Nepal has witnessed a dramatic decline in new HIV infections over the last 15 years, achieving a 76% reduction, according to recent statistics. This remarkable improvement is attributed to enhanced awareness, preventive measures, and increased access to treatment. As the country moves towards its goal of eradicating AIDS by 2030, it demonstrates a commitment to public health and community education.
Key Takeaways
- 34,337 people living with HIV in Nepal.
- New infections decreased by 76% from 2010 to 2024.
- Only 614 new infections reported in 2024.
- Heterosexual transmission is responsible for 66% of cases.
- Goal to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030.
Kathmandu, Nov 30 (NationPress) Approximately 34,337 adults and children are currently living with HIV in Nepal, with a significant decline in new infections reported from 2010 to 2024, according to the Ministry of Health and Population.
Data provided by the National Centre for AIDS and STD Control (NCASC) ahead of World AIDS Day on December 1 indicates a remarkable 76 percent reduction in new HIV infections over this period.
In 2024, there were approximately 614 new HIV cases compared to 2,557 in 2010, as reported by NCASC. This downward trend in HIV/AIDS infections in Nepal aligns with the global pattern, where new infections have decreased by 40 percent during the same timeframe.
Globally, the number of new HIV infections fell from 2.2 million in 2010 to 1.3 million in 2024, as per the World Health Organization (WHO).
Lok Raj Pandey, a senior health education officer, stated to IANS that the growth of prevention measures and treatment accessibility in the nation has been pivotal in reducing new cases. “Awareness about the disease has increased, prompting more individuals to adopt preventive strategies,” he said. “The number of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) centers has expanded to 96 from just a few over the years.”
In 2024, only 37 children under the age of 14 were newly diagnosed with HIV, marking an impressive 86 percent drop from 260 in 2010.
Among those living with HIV, 33,279 are adults aged 15 and older, with 14,000 being women. Heterosexual transmission is the primary route of HIV transmission in Nepal, accounting for 66 percent of all infections.
Currently, 26,372 individuals are receiving antiretroviral (ARV) therapy, according to NCASC. Nepal is also adopting a testing and treatment strategy aimed at fulfilling the global objective of eradicating the AIDS epidemic by 2030, as stated by NCASC.
HIV was first identified in Nepal in 1988.
Point of View
I recognize the significant strides Nepal has made in combating HIV. The decline in new infections reflects a collective effort towards better health education and increased access to treatment. It's imperative to maintain this momentum, ensuring that awareness and preventive measures continue to evolve as we strive to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030.
NationPress
30/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current number of people living with HIV in Nepal?
Approximately 34,337 adults and children are living with HIV in Nepal.
How much have new HIV infections decreased in Nepal?
New HIV infections have decreased by about 76% from 2010 to 2024.
What are the main modes of HIV transmission in Nepal?
Heterosexual transmission accounts for 66% of total infections in Nepal.
How many ART centers are currently operational in Nepal?
There are currently 96 Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) centers in Nepal.
What is Nepal's goal regarding the AIDS epidemic?
Nepal aims to eradicate the AIDS epidemic by the year 2030.
