21 July 2006
The Report on the National HIV and Syphilis Antenatal Sero-prevalence Survey
in South Africa for 2005 was released by the Department of Health today and is
available on www.doh.gov.za.
The Department of Health conducted an HIV and syphilis prevalence survey in
2005 to estimate the HIV and syphilis prevalence. The survey estimates the
national, geographical (provincial) and age distribution of HIV and syphilis.
The information from the survey is also used to estimate HIV prevalence in the
general population by means of a model.
In keeping with recent international trends to adjust HIV models and
estimates on the basis of new empirical research evidence, the Department of
Health applied the UNAIDS/World Health Organisation model, which has been
designed to take into account the cumulative effects of interventions in
estimating the number of people in the general population with HIV
infection.
Similar surveys have been conducted since 1990 to show yearly trends in HIV
prevalence.
Survey results
The findings of the survey conducted during October 2005 show that HIV
infection rates have remained at a similar level as they had been in the last
year, 2004 (29.5%), and in 2005 (30.2%).
The provincial estimates remain similar to the 2004 trends and the age
estimates show that participants in the 20 to early 30 year age groups continue
to have the highest infection rates.
The rate of HIV prevalence amongst teenagers has remained at a similar level
in 2005 (15.9%) as it was in 2004 (16.1%).
With respect to population projections, it is estimated that 18.8% of
persons in the 15-49 year age group have HIV infection. This is an estimated
4.9 million people who are in the age group 15 to 49 years. There is an
estimated 235 060 children who are 14 years and younger living with HIV. The
total population living with HIV is estimated at 5.54 million.
Syphilis prevalence for 2005 is 2.7%. The overall trend over time shows that
syphilis is less prevalent when compared to 1997.
Discussion
HIV prevalence estimates show that HIV prevalence rates for 2004 and 2005
are very similar. The prevalence profile continues to confirm the expectation
and projections of numerous groups whose models suggest that South Africa will
begin to see a decline in the prevalence profile.
The studies conducted over the years have begun to show that intervention
programmes, which emphasise prevention, have a very important role in
moderating HIV prevalence and the epidemiology of HIV infections in
general.
The study once again has provided useful information on trends in HIV
infection and this information would assist government and partners alike to
further strengthen HIV and AIDS programmes.
The Department of Health reaffirms its commitment to work together with all
sectors of our society to strengthen HIV prevention programmes as a means to
curb the spread of HIV infection and reduce the impact of AIDS on our
society.
For further information, please contact:
Sibani Mngadi
Cell: 082 772 0161
Issued by: Department of Health
21 July 2006
