8989
By: Esther Danira Johnson
Liberia’s fight against HIV is facing renewed strain as new data from the National AIDS Commission (NAC) shows a steady increase in infections, with an estimated 36,000 people now living with HIV/AIDS nationwide as of late 2024 into early 2025.
According to health experts, women continue to make up the majority of new infections, a pattern largely driven by long-standing socio-economic gaps, gender-based vulnerabilities, and limited access to essential health services in many communities.
The situation has been further weakened by the freeze in U.S. foreign aid, which has disrupted HIV services across several health facilities, threatening progress made over the past decade. Health advocates warn that unless Liberia strengthens domestic financing and long-term national support, gains made in testing, treatment, and community outreach could quickly erode.
Despite the challenges, treatment outcomes remain encouraging. Most patients currently enrolled in care have achieved viral suppression, particularly those on Dolutegravir (DTG)-based regimens, which continue to show far lower rates of treatment failure compared to older HIV therapies.
Health System Under Strain
Liberia’s public health sector is juggling multiple threats at once. In addition to the rising HIV caseload, health authorities are reporting an uptick in Mpox cases, adding pressure to an already overstretched system.
Officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspected cases promptly. For further information or to report a case, citizens are encouraged to contact local health authorities or visit the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) website.
As the country confronts these intersecting health challenges, experts say sustained investment, stronger community awareness, and renewed global support will be critical to safeguarding Liberia’s progress in the fight against HIV and other infectious diseases.
