HIV cases surge after brutal conflict in Tigray region

In Ethiopia, the Tigray region faced a devastating conflict that significantly impacted public health, notably increasing the prevalence of HIV among its population. The conflict, which lasted two years, saw widespread sexual violence, mass killings, and severe disruptions to healthcare services. One report indicated that up to 10% of women and girls aged 15 to 49 in Tigray experienced sexual abuse, predominantly through rape. During this period, existing healthcare systems broke down, leaving many individuals without access to critical medications, including antiretroviral drugs for HIV, which many had relied on for years. The aftermath of the war is evident in the stark increase of HIV infections, particularly among displaced persons in Tigray. According to the reports, the prevalence rate among the region's one million displaced individuals is significantly higher at 5.5%, a concerning trend given the historical context where the region had a relatively low HIV prevalence rate of 1.4%. The interruption of access to antiretrovirals and other health services during the war has compounded health risks, as the lack of medication increases the potential for transmission of the virus through unprotected sexual activity or from mother to child during pregnancy. Moreover, with the breakdown of healthcare services, many women felt compelled to engage in sex work to sustain themselves economically, further driving the increase in HIV cases. Health officials noted that the availability of condoms was drastically low during the conflict as Tigray was cut off from the rest of Ethiopia, exacerbating an already dire public health situation. Currently, communities are struggling to rebuild and recover, with health workers emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive medical support and resources to manage the rising HIV cases and other health crisis indicators, such as the recent surge in measles cases. The consequences of the war extend beyond immediate health concerns, revealing a pressing requirement for international aid and support to restore and enhance health services in Tigray. Without swift intervention, both the immediate health risks and long-term implications for the region's population remain critically high. Organizations that once operated with U.S. funding to combat HIV have faced significant cuts, leading to a disengagement in essential healthcare provisions. As Tigray attempts to recover, the path ahead is fraught with challenges that necessitate a multi-faceted approach to health, safety, and community support.